Advance Directives

Many people are worried about the medical care they would be given if they should become terminally ill, or if they suffer from an unexpected health occurrence and become unable to communicate their wishes. That’s why a growing number are stating their healthcare preferences in writing through legal documents called an advance directive. An advance directive can define the type of care that you do not want, as well as define the type of care you would like to receive when you are unable to make your wishes known.

If you have prepared an advance directive, please bring a copy with you to the hospital so it can be placed in your medical record. If you do not have an advance directive and would like assistance with preparing one, please contact St. Joseph’s Case Management Department at 816-943-2570.

As a ministry of the Catholic Church in the United States, this facility abides by The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.

This facility has detailed policies on the withholding and withdrawing of life support and compliance with advance directives. St. Joseph Medical Center also has an Ethics and Human Values Committee, which serves those who need a forum with consultation, discussion, support and assistance in facing choices or resolving ethical conflicts.