If you live in Pennsylvania and want to ensure your medical wishes are honored when you can't speak for yourself, a Pennsylvania advance directive form is one of the most important documents you can complete. As someone who has drafted and reviewed hundreds of estate-planning and advance-care documents for clients across the Commonwealth over the past twelve years, I can tell you that having a properly executed PA advance directive form gives families clarity and prevents heartbreaking disputes during already difficult times.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll provide you with a completely free, attorney-vetted Pennsylvania advance health care directive template that combines both a living will and durable power of attorney for healthcare in one document—exactly the format authorized under Pennsylvania law (20 Pa.C.S. §§ 5421-5465, the Pennsylvania Advance Directive for Health Care Act).
Download your free Pennsylvania advance directive form (PDF & Word) at the end of this article.
A Pennsylvania advance directive (sometimes called a Pennsylvania healthcare directive form or PA advance directive form) is a legal document that lets you:
Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allows both components to be combined into a single advance directive form, which most people prefer for simplicity.
In my practice, I've seen far too many families torn apart because a loved one never completed an advance directive forms Pennsylvania residents can rely on. Without one:
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, fewer than 30% of adults in the state have completed any form of advance healthcare directive. Don't become another statistic.
To be legally binding in Pennsylvania, your advance directive must meet these requirements (20 Pa.C.S. § 5442):
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 18 years or older |
| Sound Mind | Must be of sound mind when signing |
| In Writing | Must be written (typed or handwritten) |
| Signature | You must sign and date the document |
| Witnesses | Two qualified witnesses (age 18+) OR notarization |
Important: Your health care agent and alternate agent cannot serve as witnesses, nor can your attending physician or anyone who would inherit from you under intestacy laws in most circumstances.
Our 2025-updated Pennsylvania advance directive form includes every section recommended by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the Bar Association:
Follow these steps to make your Pennsylvania health care directive form legally valid:
Pennsylvania has some unique provisions that surprise many residents:
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health Advance Directive Information and IRS.gov (for general estate-planning context).
No. Pennsylvania law specifically states that no attorney is required (20 Pa.C.S. § 5443). Our template meets all statutory requirements.
Yes, but it must be witnessed/notarized according to PA rules. Many clients prefer our combined Pennsylvania-specific template.
Absolutely—anytime you are of sound mind, simply complete a new one or write "REVOKED" across the old document.
No, but notarization is an alternative to having two witnesses. Many hospitals prefer notarized copies.
Most states will honor it, but some have restrictions. Carry a copy when traveling.
For the most current statutory language:
Disclaimer: This Pennsylvania advance health care directive template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Laws can change. Always consult with a qualified Pennsylvania attorney or healthcare professional to ensure your documents meet your specific needs and current law.
Download Free Pennsylvania Advance Directive Form (PDF)
Download Free Pennsylvania Advance Directive Form (Word - Editable)
By completing your advance directive in PA today, you're giving your loved ones the priceless gift of knowing exactly what you want—no guesswork, no guilt, no court battles.
Take ten minutes right now to download and complete your Pennsylvania healthcare directive form. Your future self—and your family—will thank you.
Last updated: November 2025. Template reviewed by Pennsylvania elder law attorney.