Advance Medical Directive (AMD)
New advances in medical knowledge and technology create new choices for both patients and healthcare providers. Some of these choices raise new ethical and legal issues.
One issue is that modern medical technology can technically prolong life in the final stages of a terminal illness. However, it cannot stop the dying process. In such situations, further medical intervention would be medically ineffective, and a decision has to be made whether to withdraw such futile medical intervention. Some terminally ill persons who are unable to express their wishes at that time, may want to be spared further suffering and be allowed to die naturally, in peace and with dignity.
Anyone who is 21 years old and above, and who is not mentally disordered can make an AMD.
What is an AMD?
An Advance Medical Directive (AMD) is a legal document that you sign in advance to inform the doctor treating you (in the event you become terminally ill and unconscious) that you do not want any extraordinary life-sustaining treatment to be used to prolong your life.
Making an AMD is a voluntary decision. It is entirely up to you whether you wish to make one. In fact, it is a criminal offence for any person to force you to make one against your will.
How do I make an AMD?
Anyone who is aged 21 years old and above, and is not mentally disordered can make an AMD. Simply follow these steps: