Substitute Decision Maker

In the event that you can no longer communicate your health-care wishes (dementia, unconscious etc.), the health-care team will rely on your Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) to make decisions on your behalf.

• Your SDM is the person who will speak for you when you cannot.
• Your SDM is the person you trust to ensure that your wishes will be followed.
  • It is important to have a discussion with your SDM so that they understand your values, beliefs and wishes so if they are called upon they will act as your voice.
• If you do not choose or identify a SDM and are no longer are able to communicate your wishes your SDM will be decided using the NL Advance Health Care Directives Act.
• Your SDM must be at least 19 years of age.

Note: As long as you are able to speak for yourself, you will be involved in and make the decisions related to your care.