With the passage of Act 169 of 2006, state laws became more clear regarding advance directives, which govern health care decisions for incompetent adult patients. The Pennsylvania Medical Society, working closely with the
Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania, has developed resources on this act for both patients and physicians. Questions regarding specific situations involving advance directives should be directed to an attorney. State Society members may contact the Society for general information about laws and regulations affecting medical practice.