top of page
- Part 2 of 4 -
Health Care Directive
As a Manitoba citizen you have the right to accept or refuse medical treatment at any time. The Health Care Directives Act allows you to express your wishes about the amount and type of health care and treatment you
want to receive should you become unable to speak or otherwise communicate this yourself. It also allows you to give another person the power to make medical decisions for you should you ever be unable to make them yourself.
​
Please read through the information below, and then complete the form at the bottom of this page.
-
What is a patient advocate?A patient advocate is a person you choose to support you and act on your behalf. He or she will talk with your healthcare providers. Their actions on your behalf are based on your wishes. A patient advocate cannot make their own decisions about your healthcare.
-
Why do people need advocates?Some people may have trouble stating their feelings and concerns. They may be afraid to speak out. They may not understand what is said or what is happening to them. They may be too ill to speak up.
-
What are some tips on selecting an advocate?• Decide on an advocate before you are ill. • Choose someone you can talk with and trust. • Choose someone who can keep your information completely confidential. • Decide what qualities you think you need in an advocate e.g. good listener, clearly explains things, courteous, respectful and assertive. • Discuss your expectations with a possible advocate. Ask if he or she is willing and able to do these tasks. • Once the advocate agrees, complete the patient advocate agreement.
-
What is the difference between a patient advocate and a healthcare proxy?A patient advocate talks with you, supports you, and acts on your behalf according to your instructions. A healthcare proxy acts for you if you are not able to make judgments and express your wishes. You choose and name that person in your healthcare directive (living will).
-
Where can I get more information on provincial healthcare programs and services?You can go to the Manitoba Health website www.manitoba.ca/health or phone 1-866-626-4862.
-
How does this agreement relate to privacy legislation?This agreement meets the requirements in sections 60 (1) Personal Health Information Act and 79 (a) Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act allowing the advocate to have access to personal health information and personal information.
For more information, contact your Regional Health Authority.
bottom of page