RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Advance planning in end-of-life care: legal and ethical considerations for neurologists JF Practical Neurology JO Pract Neurol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 140 OP 144 DO 10.1136/jnnp.2009.200113 VO 10 IS 3 A1 Kerrigan, Simon A1 Ormerod, Ian YR 2010 UL http://pn.bmj.com/content/10/3/140.abstract AB Neurological illnesses can leave patients unable to make legally valid decisions about their medical treatment. However, this loss of decision making capacity can often be predicted in advance. The law in the UK now enables patients to make legally binding arrangements to either refuse specific treatments in advance or to appoint others to make decisions on their behalf. This article discusses the mechanics of advance planning under UK law and the role of the neurologist in helping patients to plan ahead.