The Maryland Uniform Healthcare Act Form is an essential document in the field of healthcare law which serves as a standardized way to convey an individual's healthcare preferences and decisions. This form is specifically designed to ensure that an individual's healthcare wishes are respected and upheld, particularly in situations where they may be unable to communicate or make decisions for themselves. This legal document enables Maryland residents to outline their preferences regarding medical treatments, medical interventions, resuscitation, pain management, and end-of-life care. By completing the Maryland Uniform Healthcare Act Form, individuals can have their healthcare wishes incorporated into their medical records, providing guidance to healthcare professionals and loved ones when making crucial medical decisions on their behalf. The Maryland Uniform Healthcare Act Form is a critical component of advance care planning that allows individuals to maintain control over their healthcare even in challenging circumstances. It empowers individuals to communicate their desires and ensures that their preferences are respected, promoting patient autonomy and dignity. In Maryland, there are two types of Uniform Healthcare Act Forms that individuals can utilize: 1. Maryland MOST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): This form is intended for individuals with serious, advanced medical conditions or critical illnesses who are nearing the end of their life. The MOST form is a medical order that must be signed by a healthcare professional and provides specific instructions for medical treatments and interventions. 2. Maryland Advance Directive: This form is applicable to all Maryland residents and allows individuals to express their healthcare preferences for a wide range of situations, including end-of-life care. The Advance Directive includes a durable power of attorney for healthcare, enabling individuals to appoint a trusted healthcare agent to make decisions on their behalf when they are unable to do so. These forms aim to ensure that a person's wishes are honored, regardless of their specific medical condition or stage of life. They promote accessible and consistent healthcare decision-making, providing peace of mind to individuals and their loved ones. The Maryland Uniform Healthcare Act Forms serve as a means of safeguarding patient rights, promoting transparent communication between patients and healthcare providers, and ultimately ensuring that individuals receive medical care aligned with their personal values and preferences.