What is a key aspect of the Patient Self-Determination Act?

The Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) primarily focuses on ensuring that patients are informed about their treatment options and their rights regarding medical decisions. This act was enacted to empower patients by providing them with information about their medical treatment choices and encouraging them to participate in decision-making processes about their care. It mandates that healthcare providers inform patients of their rights under state law to make decisions about their medical care, including the right to accept or refuse treatment.

This education is essential for ensuring that patients can make informed decisions that align with their personal values and preferences, ultimately supporting autonomy in healthcare. While documenting patient preferences for care providers and other related aspects may be important in patient care, the main goal of the PSDA is to promote informed consent and self-direction in the medical treatment process, making the focus on informing patients about their options the key aspect of this act.