Healthcare Directives

What is a Healthcare Directive?

A Healthcare Directive is a statement that provides direction to others regarding your healthcare choices. It allows you to accept or reject healthcare options, and gives you the ability to choose someone you know and trust to speak for you, if you are unable speak for yourself.

Why should I have a Healthcare Directive?

A Healthcare Directive allows you to exercise your right of control over your healthcare. It ensures that concerned family, friends and medical providers know your wishes and it reduces stress and tension when decisions concerning your healthcare must be made.

How can I get a Healthcare Directive?

Winona Health Auxiliary, Social Workers, Attorneys, Healthcare Professionals and others can provide assistance. For easy, free and local assistance, attend a public session at Winona Health. Trained facilitators will present information and give individual assistance in completing your Healthcare Directive.

Sessions are scheduled for the third Monday of every other month in the Parkview Conference Room at Winona Health.

Times include:

  • Third Monday of March, July and November: 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
  • Third Monday of January, May and September: 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

What do healthcare providers think?

“Patients with serious illness or injury are often confused or otherwise unable to direct their healthcare. The Healthcare Directive is the best way for individuals to be sure their physicians and family will know their wishes. It is very difficult and stressful for relatives, friends and physicians to make decisions and end-of-life choices. I’m a strong believer in Healthcare Directives.”
~ Charles A. Shepard, MD., FACP, Winona Health Hospital Medical Director

Healthcare Directive Forms

A Healthcare Directive is a replacement for a living will, power of attorney for healthcare and an advance directive. By obtaining a form and completing it, you have the right to control your healthcare decisions.

Healthcare Directives Form: a legal document developed to create a power of attorney for healthcare that meets the requirements of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa residents.

Healthcare Directives Change Form: for those who have currently have a Winona Health Healthcare Directive, and wish to make changes.

Facilitator List: a contact list of individuals available for questions and guidance.

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