Advance medical directives: what you want if you cannot decide

When it takes effect

Your directives apply **only** if you are classified as a dying patient and also cannot decide or express your wishes. They have nothing to do with other situations.

What you can decide

You can ask not to receive treatments that prolong life, such as chemotherapy, surgery, being connected to a breathing machine, or tube feeding. You can also name a person to decide for you (a medical power of attorney). Read the form carefully and talk with your treating doctor.

• ☐Talk with your family doctor
• ☐Talk with your family about what you want
• ☐Choose a person to decide for you, if needed

How to do it

You fill in a Ministry of Health (משרד הבריאות) form, attach a doctor's statement and a copy of your ID card, and sign. According to the official website, you send it by registered mail to the **Center for Advance Medical Directives** at the Ministry of Health. Check the address and the requirements on the website again before you send it.

• ☐The advance directives form
• ☐A doctor's statement
• ☐A copy of your ID card
• ☐Sending it as the website instructs

How to make sure the medical team knows

After registration, the directives should appear in the systems, but do not rely on that alone. We recommend: - Keep a copy yourself and with the person you chose. - Show a copy to your family doctor, who will add it to your file. - Put a copy in your bag for the hospital. - Tell your family members where it is. (This is a general recommendation. Check with your health fund.)

• ☐A copy with your family doctor
• ☐A copy with a family member
• ☐A copy in your hospital bag

Stages of handling your claim

1. I prepared the form
2. Sent
3. Registered
4. My family and doctor know