### Question
How is the term advance directive defined?


### Answer
The term **advance directive** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 1396a* as the following:

> a written instruction, such as a living will or durable power of attorney for health care, recognized under State law (whether statutory or as recognized by the courts of the State) and relating to the provision of such care when the individual is incapacitated

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 1396a*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER XIX-GRANTS TO STATES FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS**

