More Topics in Medical Decision-Making
Psychiatric Advance Directives
While there is no special advance directive for psychiatric care in Vermont, individuals living with mental illness can complete legal documents to specify their preferences and priorities for future mental health treatments in advance of a health crisis.
Learn MoreConsiderations for Individuals with Dementia or Alzheimer's
There is no known cure for dementia or Alzheimer's. As these diseases progress, you will lose the ability to make decisions and care for yourself. Providing guidance about what you would want can help you feel more secure.
Learn MorePediatric Decision-Making
Parents are presumed to be the appropriate decision makers for their children under 18 years of age. Children under 18 cannot complete advance directives and medical decisions for them are usually based on what the parents believe is in their child's best interest.
Guidance for Parents & Decision-MakersMaking Medical Decisions for Someone Else
Making medical decisions for someone else can be a big responsibility, but it can also be an important way to help someone you care about. If you're called upon to serve in this role, there is help available.
Guidance for Decision MakersAdult Guardianship
If an adult is not able to manage their personal care or financial affairs, a guardian may be appointed to promote their well-being and protect their rights. The powers of a guardian can be total or limited to the needs of the individual.
Learn More About GuardianshipOrgan Donation
Every day, people die while awaiting organ transplants because there is a shortage of donated organs and tissues. Organ donation will not happen until all efforts to save your life have been exhausted and death has been determined.
More Information About Organ Donation