An advance directive is a written instruction that relates to the provision of healthcare when the individual is incapacitated. The Stewart and Lynda Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA supports a patient's right to participate in healthcare decision-making. This decision-making includes the right to accept or refuse medical treatment (even if the treatment is life-sustaining), advance directives and surrogate decision-making. This hospital complies with California laws and court decisions relating to advance directives.

This hospital does not condition the provision of care or otherwise discriminate against anyone based on whether or not he/she has executed an advance directive. It is your responsibility to provide a valid copy of your advance directive to this hospital, if you have one, so that it can be kept with your medical record. If you do not have an advance directive, Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA Admissions or your nurse can provide a booklet of instructions. We have formal policies to ensure that your wishes about treatment will be followed. If you have any questions, please talk to your physician or nurse.