An advance directive is a legal document that helps ensure that your health care wishes will be respected even if you are unable to communicate for yourself. It refers to both a living will and a medical power of attorney or appointment of a health care agent.

You can download an advance directive form from this page or call Admitting at (805) 688-6431, ext. 278, to obtain a copy. Bring the form with you when you come to the hospital to register. If you have been a patient at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital before, you can submit your advance directive form any time to the Health Information Department (Medical Records) and ask them to attach it to your permanent medical record.

It is a good idea to tell your family that you have an advance directive on file at the hospital, and let them know how they can access a copy in the event of an emergency. If you've been a patient at more than one hospital, you should keep your advance directive on file at each hospital in case you are ever admitted in an emergency.