Regions:
Have you ever thought about who would speak for you if you couldn’t speak for yourself? It’s not an easy question — but it may be the most important conversation you ever have with your loved ones and your care team.
In Nevada, every adult has the right to make choices about their health care, even if a time comes when they cannot speak for themselves. That right is protected by state and federal law. As part of our responsibility as a licensed Intermediary Service Organization (ISO) providing Personal Care Services (PCS) under Nevada Medicaid, Venture Forthe is committed to helping our community understand Advance Directives — what they are, why they matter, and why the choice always belongs to you.
An Advance Directive is a legal document where you put your health care wishes in writing before a crisis. It is your voice on paper.
It tells doctors, hospitals, and caregivers the kind of treatment you do — or do not — want if you cannot share your preferences. In Nevada, it can also let you choose someone you trust to make health decisions for you.
Advance Directives aren’t about giving up control. They are about keeping control, so your values, beliefs, and choices guide your care — no matter the circumstances.
When a medical emergency happens, families may be left guessing about what their loved one would want. That uncertainty is stressful, and it can make an already difficult moment even harder. An Advance Directive removes that burden. It offers clarity and peace of mind for your family while giving your care team clear guidance.
We also know these conversations can feel uncomfortable, and in some families or cultures, they may even be considered off-limits. That’s okay. Choosing whether or not to complete an Advance Directive is deeply personal. Our role is simply to provide information, and to respect your choice — whatever it may be.
Nevada law is clear: Advance Directives are always voluntary. No one can require you to have one, and your decision will never be held against you.
Your health care will always be provided with dignity and respect, whether or not you choose to complete an Advance Directive.
Nevada law recognizes several types of Advance Directives, each serving a different purpose:
You may choose one, several, or none at all — the decision is always yours.
Nevada is one of the few states with a special program called the Living Will Lockbox, managed by the Secretary of State. Think of it as a secure online filing cabinet for your Advance Directive.
If you choose to register, your forms are stored electronically so that doctors and hospitals anywhere in Nevada can access them in an emergency. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll receive a wallet card with your Lockbox ID number — a quick way for providers to know where your instructions are stored.
This service is optional and comes with a small filing fee, but it gives you peace of mind knowing your wishes can be found immediately, even if your family or paperwork isn’t close by.
For example: if you were in a car accident far from home, the hospital could look up your Advance Directive through the Lockbox, making sure your choices are respected without delay.
While most states, including New York, do not have this type of system, Nevadans have the benefit of a statewide registry designed specifically to protect your voice in health care.
Advance Directive forms in Nevada are free and easy to access. You don’t need a lawyer, though you may choose to consult one. Many people complete them with help from a doctor, family member, or community program.
One of the best people to talk to is your primary physician. Your doctor can explain medical terms, answer questions about treatments, and help you understand what these choices might mean for your health.
Here are trusted places to begin:
Creating an Advance Directive is only the first step. To make sure it’s followed:
At Venture Forthe, we believe Advance Directives are about more than paperwork — they’re about conversation. The most important one you can have with your family, your doctor, and yourself.
Our commitment is to provide education, not persuasion. Whether you complete an Advance Directive or not, we will:
Advance Directives truly are the most important conversation — and we are here to help make sure it’s one you feel ready to have.
