What You Can File and How
The Arizona healthcare directives registry accepts several types of documents. These include healthcare directives, prehospital medical care directives (including POLST orders), and mental health directives.
You can also file any changes or cancellations. The health information exchange that runs the registry sets the specific filing steps.
A person may submit to the health care directives registry, in a manner prescribed by the qualifying health information exchange organization, health care directives, including prehospital medical care directives and any amendments to or revocations of these documents.
A.R.S. § 36-3292(A)Filing is voluntary. You do not have to register your directives for them to be valid. But if you do file, the documents must be either notarized or witnessed as Chapter 32 requires.
Identity Checks Protect Your Documents
The statute requires the exchange to create a process for checking the identity of anyone who files. This is a safeguard. Your directives hold deeply personal choices about medical care.
As a result, only verified people can file, change, or cancel them.
The qualifying health information exchange organization shall establish a process for authenticating the identity of the person who submits a document to the health care directives registry.
A.R.S. § 36-3292(B)Why Registration Helps Your Family
If you already have healthcare directives, consider registering them. Registration adds easy access without changing the documents.
Family members often do not know where originals are stored. During an emergency, the registry gives providers a reliable backup source.
Registration is especially helpful if you travel often or split time between locations. No matter where you get care, a provider can check the registry. This is one simple step that can make a real difference when it matters most.