[Advance directives and advance care planning].

Advance directives (AD) and Advance Care Planning (ACP) are two measures a person may undertake to assure that their treatment preferences will be respected until the end of his / her life. Anticipation is based on an open and honest communication between the patient, the durable medical power of attorney and the health care professionals. ADs and ACPs are based on a person's values and beliefs that are important to his quality of life. ACP is a continuing process, initiated by health care professionals and integrated into the health care plan of a person. It should be adjusted all along the disease trajectory and favors communication and anticipation in the health care network. ADs are often a personal initiative to ensure one's wishes in relation to health issues. In Switzerland, they are based on a legal framework and their application is therefore mandatory for health care professionals.