An advance care plan is a personal written statement expressing how medical care choices should be made for you in the event you are unable to communicate, such as from having a severe injury or illness.

In a medical emergency, a health professional must follow the wishes outlined in an advance care plan. In all other situations, the person you have legally appointed as your substitute decision-maker (also called a representative or proxy) must follow the guidelines from the advance care plan.

Advance care plans should be documented and comply with the guidelines established within a person's province of residence. The laws regarding advance care plans vary by province. But if you have concerns about your wishes being followed, you may want to see a lawyer and outline in detail under what circumstances you want or don't want medical care or procedures. The provisions within an advance care plan, such as when to continue or abandon life-support measures, also should be discussed with a health professional, family members, and other potential decision-makers.