Making decisions about our healthcare is important. We all have different views, opinions, and wishes. It is important that these wishes are followed, even when we are unable to make the decisions for ourselves. Sometimes, we are put in positions where we cannot make our own medical decisions. As a result, it is important to create an advance healthcare directive. This document includes information regarding our end of life care. Each individual can decide if he or she wants to donate organs, be put on life support, and so on. Life is unpredictable, so it is important to have an advance healthcare directive in the event that one were to become incapacitated or unable to make sound decisions. This way, the decisions will already be made, helping medical professionals follow your wishes.
What issues can an advance health care directive address?
There are many important issues that are discussed in an advance healthcare directive. Some of these issues include:
- Authorize loved ones to obtain medical records in emergency situations
- Indicate whether the document is effective immediately or upon a finding of incapacity
- Set the standard for determining your incapacity
- Communicate your wishes to receive or not receive life-saving care
- Ensure decisions are made in accordance with your beliefs, principles, or religious practices
- Any additional healthcare wishes or concerns
It is important to remember that, even if you have your wishes in writing, you should still make sure your friends, family, and doctors are aware of your plans and wishes.
Additional Information
There are a lot of different documents and decisions to make when it comes to estate planning. Just creating a will is not enough to have a thorough estate plan. For example, if you were to put your healthcare wishes or funeral plans in your will, they would likely be overlooked because a will is not usually read until after the funeral.
Estate planning can be daunting. As a result, it is important to reach out to a skilled estate planning attorney who can create a personalized plan that meets the needs of you and your loved ones. If you are interested in creating an advance healthcare directive, contact an experienced California estate planning attorney today to begin the process. It is never too early to begin thinking about the future. Being prepared will greatly benefit you and your loved ones in the long run and we are here to make that happen.
Contact our Firm
Working with an experienced estate planning attorney, such as Jaci Feldman of the Woodland Hills, California, Law Offices of Yacoba Ann Feldman, will ensure that you are taken care of when you need it most. Do not delay. Estate planning is a more urgent matter than you may think. You never know what the future holds. Contact The Law Offices of Yacoba Ann Feldman to schedule a consultation today.
