You are not required to prepare medical directives, which can include living wills and medical power of attorney, but it is the best way to state your intentions about how you want to be treated and cared for if you are unable to communicate your desires. Advance care planning helps your family and loved ones by decreasing the uncertainty, confusion, and conflict about your care. If you don’t name someone to be your healthcare advocate, the Texas Advance Directive Act dictates how decisions will be made with regard to your treatment and sustenance, and these may or may not reflect your intentions.