Which health care document outlines a patient's care preferences?

An advance directive is a crucial health care document that outlines a patient's care preferences, especially regarding important decisions that may need to be made in case they become unable to communicate their choices. This document provides guidance to health care providers and family members about what types of medical treatment a patient wishes to receive or avoid in certain circumstances, ensuring that their personal values and preferences are respected.

In contrast, a living will is a specific type of advance directive that primarily focuses on end-of-life care decisions. While it does represent care preferences, it is more limited in scope compared to the broader definition of an advance directive, which may also include other types of preferences and designations, like choosing a health care proxy.

A medical history report simply provides an overview of a patient’s past medical issues, treatments, and medications, rather than outlining preferences for future care. Similarly, a treatment plan is a detailed outline of the medical treatments and interventions tailored to a patient's current condition, without necessarily reflecting the patient’s broader care preferences or values regarding future health decisions.