Which document allows patients to specify their medical care preferences if they are unable to communicate?

The living will is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their preferences regarding medical treatment and care in case they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This document typically specifies what types of medical interventions a person does or does not want to receive, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, or feeding tubes.

Having a living will in place is crucial for ensuring that a person's healthcare preferences are respected, even when they are unable to advocate for themselves. This is particularly important in situations where immediate medical decisions must be made, as it provides guidance to healthcare providers and family members.

In contrast, a medical power of attorney appoints someone to make healthcare decisions on a person's behalf, which may or may not align with the individual's wishes if those wishes are not already documented. A health insurance card primarily serves as proof of insurance coverage and has no bearing on treatment preferences. The patient rights brochure outlines the rights of patients within a healthcare facility but does not specify medical preferences.