Legal documents that specify medical treatment preferences when incapacitated are known as?

Legal documents that specify medical treatment preferences when an individual is incapacitated are commonly referred to as advance directives. These directives allow individuals to communicate their wishes regarding medical care in scenarios where they may no longer be able to express those wishes due to health conditions. Advance directives can encompass various forms, including living wills and healthcare power of attorney, which clearly outline the types of medical intervention one would or would not want.

Advance directives are crucial in guiding healthcare providers and ensuring that a person's treatment preferences are honored, sparing family members from making difficult decisions during emotionally charged situations. By legally documenting these preferences, individuals can retain control over their healthcare, even when they can no longer speak for themselves. The focus of advance directives is to respect patient autonomy, which is a fundamental principle in medical ethics and law.