Advance Directives
Advance Directives are written instructions about the healthcare you want to receive if you are unable to speak for yourself. Any Sunshine Health member 18 years or older can make an Advance Directive to accept or refuse medical or surgical treatment or withhold or remove life-giving care in the event of a terminal condition. This also includes planning treatment before you need it.
You can call Member Services if you have questions, or to ask for a copy of our policy. The number is 1-866-796-0530, or talk with your PCP if you have any questions. Call them if you need help finding the form. Once finished, ask your PCP to put the form in your file. You can make changes to your directive when you want to. If the law changes, we will let you know within 90 days of any change.
If your directive is not being followed, you can call the state’s complaint line at 1-888-419-3456.
Together, you and your PCP can make decisions that will set your mind at ease. It can help your doctors understand your wishes about your health. Advance Directives will not take away your right to make your own decisions. They will work only when you are unable to speak for yourself. You will not be treated differently for not having an Advance Directive. Sunshine Health does not limit the implementation of Advance Directives as a matter of conscience.
Examples of Advance Directives include:
- Living Will
- Health Care Power of Attorney
- “Do Not Resuscitate” Orders
Sunshine Health recommends all of our plan members take the time to create a Living Will, designate a Power of Attorney and provide their Advance Directive to their primary care physician.
To learn more about creating your Advance Directive, please visit the Florida Health Care Association website.