Who Needs a Copy of Your Advance Care Plan? & Why?
You’ve done something truly courageous—you’ve taken the time to create an advance care plan. You’ve considered what medical interventions you want (and don’t want), named a healthcare proxy, and outlined your wishes with care. That alone is a huge step toward ensuring your voice is heard even when you can’t speak for yourself.
But here’s the part that often gets overlooked: who actually knows what’s in it?
An advance care plan is only powerful if the right people have access to it—before a crisis happens.
So let’s talk about who needs a copy (or at the very least, knows exactly where to find one), and why that matters.
1. Your Healthcare Proxy or Medical Power of Attorney
This person is literally your voice if you're unable to speak. They need a full copy of your plan and a clear understanding of your values and wishes. A conversation goes a long way here—don't just hand it over, talk it through.
Why it matters: In a high-stress moment, they won’t have time to dig through files or guess what you'd want. Give them the clarity and confidence to advocate for you.
2. Close Family Members or Loved Ones
Even if they aren’t your proxy, family and close friends are often the ones present during emergencies. Sharing your wishes helps minimize confusion, disagreements, or emotional decision-making in the heat of the moment.
Why it matters: It prevents conflict and guilt. Everyone is on the same page—literally—and your plan speaks when emotions might otherwise take over.
3. Your Primary Care Provider and Specialists
Ask them to scan a copy into your medical records. If you’re receiving ongoing care or managing a chronic illness, your providers need to understand the scope of your preferences.
Why it matters: They’re the ones writing the orders and calling the shots. Your plan helps guide their decisions toward your values—not just standard protocol.
4. Your Local Hospital or Medical Facility (If You Visit One Regularly)
Some hospitals can add your advance directive to your file, so it’s available system-wide. Others might let you upload it to an online patient portal.
Why it matters: In an emergency, every second counts. If your plan is already on file, the ER team doesn't have to rely on guesswork.
5. Your Death Doula or End-of-Life Support Person
If you’re working with a death doula or end-of-life advocate (hi, that might be me!), we can help keep everyone aligned, make sure the plan is honored, and support your proxy in navigating decisions.
Why it matters: Death doulas are trained to walk alongside you and your loved ones, and having your advance care plan allows us to support your journey with more intention and respect.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Copy in an Easy-to-Find Place
Think: a labeled folder in your home, a file in your phone, a printed copy in your glove box. Make sure someone knows where to look.
In Summary: Make Your Wishes Known
Creating an advance care plan is about more than paperwork—it’s about ensuring your dignity, values, and choices are honored when it matters most. Sharing it is an act of love and clarity. You deserve peace of mind, and your loved ones deserve the guidance that only you can provide.
If you haven’t created your plan yet—or you’re unsure who to share it with—I’d be honored to walk you through it. You don’t have to do it alone.