Alaska Advanced Healthcare Directives: What You Need and Why You Shouldn’t Wait
- EmergencyNotaryServices.com
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 11
When it comes to end-of-life care or preparing for hospitalization, one of the most important steps Alaskans can take is completing an Advanced Healthcare Directive. These legal documents provide a clear roadmap for your medical care decisions if you are ever unable to communicate your wishes yourself.
At EmergencyNotaryServices.com, we are committed to helping you prepare for the unexpected. We've partnered with AARP.com to make Alaska-specific forms available for free download directly through our website. But before you fill them out, let’s take a closer look at what an Advanced Healthcare Directive package typically includes—and why each document matters.
What Are Advanced Healthcare Directives?
Advanced Healthcare Directives are legal documents that express your healthcare preferences and authorize others to make decisions on your behalf in the event you’re incapacitated. These documents are especially critical during emergencies, serious illnesses, or end-of-life situations.
In Alaska, these directives help ensure that your personal choices about treatment, care, and comfort are respected by your loved ones and medical professionals.
Common Documents Included in an Alaska Advanced Healthcare Directive Package
1. Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD) Form
This is the cornerstone document. It allows you to:
Appoint a Healthcare Agent (also called a healthcare proxy) to make decisions on your behalf.
Specify the types of life-sustaining treatments you do or do not want (e.g., resuscitation, feeding tubes, ventilators).
Express your preferences for pain management, organ donation, and more.
2. Living Will
Often included as part of the AHCD, a Living Will clearly outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you're terminally ill or permanently unconscious. It removes guesswork for your loved ones and healthcare providers.
3. Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
This document allows you to designate someone you trust to make healthcare decisions for you—ranging from treatment options to facility transfers—if you're unable to decide for yourself.
4. HIPAA Authorization Form
This release permits your chosen agent(s) to access your private medical information, which is essential for informed decision-making.
5. Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order (Optional)
While not required in every situation, a DNR order informs medical professionals that you do not want CPR or other life-saving measures if your heart or breathing stops.
Why You Should Complete These Forms Before You Need Them
Emergencies can strike without warning. Completing your Advanced Healthcare Directives in advance ensures that your care aligns with your values and that your loved ones won’t face the stress of making difficult decisions without guidance.
You can download the Alaska-specific documents here (powered by AARP) to get started right away.
Notarization Is Often Required
Some of these documents may require notarization to be legally valid in Alaska. That’s where we come in. Use our Notary Directory to find a qualified professional near you who can notarize your Advanced Healthcare Directives quickly and correctly.
Don’t see a notary in your area? Request a free quote and we’ll help connect you to one who can assist—either in-person or through mobile services.
Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation
Advanced Healthcare Directives aren’t just for the elderly or chronically ill—they're for everyone. By completing your directives now, you’re making a thoughtful, empowering decision for both yourself and your loved ones.
Let EmergencyNotaryServices.com support you in this essential process. Download your forms today, and contact a notary in our directory to complete your documents with confidence.
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