The legislation was signed into law in 2022, but many are unaware of the directive, according to the publication.
The directive was designed to give individuals independence, make decisions related to treatment and name someone who can also make treatment decisions if the person is no longer in control of their behavioral health, similar to physical advance directives like a do-not-resuscitate order.
The bill had been introduced to lawmakers for over 12 years and failed each time. Existing advance directive forms did not have any stipulations related to mental health conditions, which is why lawmakers in support of the bill kept pushing.
The PAD can be shared with local hospitals, health providers and police departments.
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