The representation agreement in British Columbia is an important legal document that outlines who can make decisions for you if you become unable to make them for yourself. It covers a variety of areas, including personal care, health care, and legal matters. In this article, we will focus on Section 7 of the BC Representation Agreement, which deals with end-of-life decisions.
Section 7 of the BC Representation Agreement is also known as the “Advance Directive” section. It allows you to make specific decisions about your care and treatment at the end of your life, including whether you want life-support measures to be used to keep you alive. This is an important part of the representation agreement, as it ensures that your wishes are respected even if you are unable to communicate them yourself.
One of the key elements of Section 7 is the ability to appoint a representative to make decisions on your behalf. This can be a family member, friend, or other trusted individual who understands your wishes and values. Your representative will be responsible for making decisions based on the instructions you have provided in the advance directive.
It is important to note that the decisions you make in your advance directive may only be relevant if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. If you are able to communicate, your wishes and preferences will take precedence over any instructions in the advance directive. This is why it is essential that you discuss your wishes with your representative and healthcare providers to ensure that they are well-informed and able to make decisions that align with your wishes.
Overall, Section 7 of the BC Representation Agreement is a crucial part of end-of-life planning. By taking the time to consider your wishes and appoint a representative to make decisions on your behalf, you can ensure that your values and preferences are respected even if you are unable to communicate them yourself. If you have not yet created a representation agreement, it is important to speak with a legal professional who can help you navigate the process and ensure that your wishes are properly documented.