An Advance Medical Directive (AMD) is a pivotal legal document in Singapore that empowers individuals to make pre-emptive decisions about their medical care. Established by the Singapore parliament in 1996 and put into effect in 1997, an AMD allows a person to decline extraordinary life-sustaining treatment if they become terminally ill and unconscious with imminent death. This legal instrument was introduced to address the ethical and legal issues arising from medical advancements that prolong life in terminally ill patients, often without improving quality of life.
But what is the allowed scope of treatments after the activation of AMD? Let’s find out!
Understanding the Specifications of an AMD
An AMD kicks into effect under specific conditions: the patient must be terminally ill, require extraordinary life-sustaining treatment, and be unable to make rational decisions. It is important to note that while an AMD prevents the initiation of extraordinary measures to extend life, it does not stop the provision of palliative care, ensuring that the patient receives the necessary comfort and pain relief. Furthermore, any Singaporean who is 21 years old and above and of sound mind can sign an AMD. This decision is entirely voluntary and must be made without any external coercion. The process involves completing a prescribed form in the presence of two witnesses and submitting it to the Registrar of AMDs.
Scope and Limitations of Advance Medical Directive
The primary purpose of an AMD is to prevent unnecessary prolongation of life through medical technology that, while capable of extending life, may not halt the dying process. This directive ensures that individuals can die naturally without the burden of additional suffering when recovery is not possible.
For an AMD to be activated, several specific conditions must be met: the individual must be suffering from a terminal illness, must be unconscious, require extraordinary life-sustaining treatment, and be incapable of making rational judgments regarding their healthcare. Importantly, an AMD comes into effect only under these stringent criteria, ensuring it is only utilised when a person can no longer benefit from medical treatment meant to prolong life.
Under the terms of an AMD, treatments that solely prolong the life of a terminally ill and unconscious patient without providing palliative care or alleviation of discomfort are excluded. These may include invasive surgical procedures or life-support technologies. However, it is crucial to note that an AMD does not affect the provision of palliative care (treatments aimed at relieving pain and making the patient as comfortable as possible are still administered). Thus, while an AMD limits aggressive medical interventions, it ensures continued support for the patient's comfort and dignity in their final days.
The Role of The Life Legacy in Your AMD Journey
The Life Legacy plays a pivotal role in simplifying the AMD process for individuals in Singapore. Initially, they provide a comprehensive explanation of what an AMD entails and the implications of signing such a document. Following this, if an individual chooses to proceed, The Life Legacy assists with the completion of the necessary forms, ensures they are correctly certified by a doctor, and manages the submission to the appropriate registry. This guidance is vital in ensuring that the legal requirements are meticulously met and that individuals fully understand the significance of their decisions.
Engaging with The Life Legacy ensures that your end-of-life wishes are not only documented but also honoured, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. So contact us today and have peace of mind until your last days.
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