Advance Health Care Proxy & Directives
An Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD) allows a person to specify another adult to communicate or make health care decisions for him or her in the case of incapacity. For a Christian Scientist, having such a document prepared and in effect prior to a time of need is especially important. An AHCD can also allow the individual to state, in a legally recognized way, his or her desire to receive health care in accord with the theology and practice of Christian Science, and to refuse medical treatment. Having an AHCD in effect may be an important factor for an individual who is required to sign (or have a legal representative sign) a Medicare Election Form in order to use Medicare benefits to pay for Christian Science nursing care.
It is advisable for every adult to have an AHCD in place. An attorney can draw up a customized Advance Health Care Directive, or medically-oriented versions can be purchased at an office supply store. It is highly recommended that an attorney review your AHCD in order to be sure it complies with the laws of the state where you reside. Working with an attorney, Arden Wood has generated a list of guidelines and a draft AHCD that may be useful for many Christian Scientists living in California. You can access these documents here: download AHCD form PDF or request a paper copy by mailing us a check for a modest donation to help cover printing and postage costs:
Arden Wood
Development Office
445 Wawona Street
San Francisco, CA 94116-3058
