MyDecisions (www.MyDecisions.org.uk) is a website that allows people to draft an advance decision to refuse treatment or an advance statement online for free.
An advance decision lets someone record any medical treatments they don’t want to be given in the future. An advance statement records anything that’s important to someone when thinking about their health, care and wellbeing – such as religious or spiritual views, their daily routine or where they would like to be cared for.
Why is planning ahead important?
By planning ahead and recording their wishes, people are more likely to receive the treatment and care that is right for them.
It enables you to understand how people would like to be cared for, and can make things easier for family members knowing that their loved ones’ wishes are being respected.
Despite the benefits of planning ahead, only 4% of people have formally recorded their wishes by completing an advance decision or lasting power of attorney (LPA).
In response to this, the charity Compassion in Dying launched www.MyDecisions.org.uk, the UK’s first website that allows people to make an advance decision or an advance statement online for free.
Planning ahead made easy
The MyDecisions site is a useful tool for any individual wishing to formally record their wishes and preferences for their future.
It was developed following consultation with over 300 people to make it straightforward, while also prompting people to consider what is important to them in relation to future treatment and care.
Compassion in Dying also worked closely with clinicians and lawyers in designing the site to ensure that the forms meet all legal requirements and are clear in medical situations.
How does it work?
www.MyDecisions.org.uk guides people through different scenarios in which they may lose capacity and prompts them to consider what they would want in these situations.
These scenarios include dementia, brain injury and terminal illness. The website provides comprehensive guidance at each stage, so that people can make informed decisions.
People can save their progress at any point and return to it later, allowing them time to consider their options and consult others about their wishes.
Once the advance decision or advance statement is finished it can be printed, signed and witnessed before being shared with the individuals’ healthcare team, family and friends.
Further information
For more information, or to make an advance decision or advance statement, go to www.MyDecisions.org.uk
You can also download any of Compassion in Dying’s publications or factsheets from its website. If you require any further information or support you can contact Compassion in Dying’s free information line on 0800 999 2434 (10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday) or email info@compassionindying.org.uk
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