CONCEPT OF PATIENT’S ADVANCE EXPRESSED WILL

Abstract

The patient may be found in a situation where he can no longer make decisions because of an accident or illness. It is considered that the decision on treatment admit in the best interests of the patient, but without certain written instructions it is almost impossible. The patient's advance expressed will is the way in which any person can express the exact wishes of treatment for particular situations at a time when patient can’t made the decision. There is a need to respect to the principle of self-determination, where the patient has the right to know all the information about his state of health and he can determine in what situations he agrees or prohibits certain medical examinations, treatments or interventions. In Latvia, the idea of the patient's advance expressed will has been not many research and not implemented, so the work gives an insight into the concept and content of the patient's advance expressed will.