Coronavirus restrictions may create difficulties in getting Advance Care Directives signed by the appropriate people and your doctor.
Advance Care Directives can be completed with and signed by your doctor if you have email or fax available. Alternatively, all states and territories (excluding Queensland) recognise common law Advance Care Directives.
A common law Advance Care Directive can be created by using a recommended form or creating a letter, and should include your:
- name
- date of birth
- preferences for care
- acceptable or unacceptable outcomes (e.g. CPR, ventilation, loss of independence)
- substitute decision-maker
- signature and date.
It is best to check the forms and requirements of your state or territory. Advanced Care Planning Australia provides specific information about this.
