Advance Directives
An advance directive is a useful, legal way for an individual (or declarant) to direct their medical care, particularly treatment preferences in an emergency or near end of life. An advance directive can also include the name of a health care agent (or proxy) that can make decisions for a declarant if they are unable to do so themselves.
Maryland law permits an advance directive to be in the form of a written or electronic document or a verbal statement made in a video recording. Increasing accessibility to advance directives has generally been a national priority in health care decision making policy to ensure patients receive medical care that is consistent with their values, goals, and preferences.
Over the last several years, the State has prioritized expanding access to electronic advance directives via the State-Designated Health Information Exchange (HIE), the Chesapeake Regional Information System for our Patients (CRISP).
State Recognition
State law (2016 Chapter 510 and 2017 Chapter 667) requires the Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC) to develop a State Recognition Program for electronic advance directives services (also referred to as vendors). The law aims to facilitate use of cloud-based technology that supports creation of and accessibility to electronic advance directives. State Recognition demonstrates a vendor meets certain criteria or standards for privacy and security, independent audits, education, reporting, and technical provisions, some of which are required by State and federal law.
How to Apply
In the fall of 2016, the MHCC collaborated with stakeholders to develop draft regulations and vendor criteria for State Recognition. COMAR 10.25.19: State Recognition of an Electronic Advance Directives Service outlines program procedures for State Recognition, a prerequisite for connecting to the State-Designated HIE. Vendors seeking State Recognition are required to meet all criteria. State Recognition is valid for three years, unless suspended or revoked by the MHCC.
Services Granted State Recognition
About CRISP
CRISP was designated in 2009 by the MHCC and the Health Services Cost Review Commission to build and maintain the technical infrastructure to support the secure exchange of electronic health information statewide. Various provider organizations throughout Maryland are connected to CRISP, including all acute care hospitals and almost half of long-term care facilities.
Advance Directives for Consumers
Advance care planning is a widely recognized way to support patient self-determination, facilitate decision making, and promote better care at the end of life (American Medical Association). Regardless of health status, everyone over the age of 18 is encouraged to think about and document their values and treatment preferences to guide future medical decisions about their care. This includes appointing a health care agent.
For resources to help health care consumers understand the advance care planning process, please see Advance Directives for Consumers.
Additional Resources
- Summary of Maryland Health Care Decisions Act
- Guidance from the Maryland Attorney General about the law as amended through 2017.
Contact Us
For questions about how to submit an application to be considered for State Recognition, please email Justine Springer at ad.staterecognition@maryland.gov.