ABSTRACT
Every individual has the right to make the important decisions regarding their health care. Whether choosing to undergo a specific medical procedure, take certain medications, or receive life support, every individual exercises control over their treatment. An advanced directive clearly states the individual's wishes and attitudes on all medical interventions and future care decisions. If a patient becomes incapacitated, an advanced directive informs the health care provider what specific care is desired and what is not. A psychiatric advance directive (PAD) is similar in many respects to a medical advanced directives but is specific to mental health care. The concepts of a severe and enduring eating disorder and severe enduring anorexia nervosa are areas where a PAD could offer direct benefit. The Community Outreach Partnership Program is a means to working with more severely ill individuals with eating disorders, and the primary goals are quality of life and increasing independence rather than decreasing symptoms.
