Which statement is true about a simple medical directive?

• A. It states preferences but may or may not appoint a decision-maker
• B. It appoints a durable power of attorney for healthcare
• C. It has no influence on medical decisions
• D. It replaces all prior directives

Answer: (A)

A simple medical directive is a straightforward advance directive that records your treatment preferences for times when you can’t speak for yourself. It guides doctors and family by outlining what kinds of care you want or don’t want, such as resuscitation, life-sustaining treatments, or comfort-focused care. It may or may not appoint a decision-maker; some forms simply list preferences, while others designate a specific person to decide, but that appointment is not guaranteed in every simple directive. The important part is that it informs decisions and helps ensure your wishes are known, rather than replacing a clinician’s professional judgment. It does not automatically replace all prior directives—older directives may still be in effect unless you revoke or update them. A durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names a specific decision-maker to act when you can’t, is a separate instrument.