Advanced Care Planning: It’s in the Details
If you have a living will, standard will, and do-not-resuscitate order (if desired), you might feel you have all your affairs in order. But if you suddenly become incapacitated or if dementia sets in, these documents may not provide enough protection for you or your loved ones. A “durable” power of attorney for healthcare enables the person you assign to make important medical decisions for you the you are unable to do for yourself.
- What’s in a Name
A durable power of attorney for healthcare is also known as an advanced healthcare directive in many states. Depend-ing on where you live, the person you appoint may be called your “agent,” “attorney-in-fact,” “health care proxy,” “health care surrogate,” or something similar. Regardless of which legal term is used in your state, assign a trustworthy person who shares your medical treatment philosophy and values. Your agent might be a family member, a friend, your lawyer, or someone with whom you worship. It’s a good idea to also name an alternate agent. Discuss your preferences with these people and ensure they are comfortable making medical decisions in your behalf. - Start with State Forms
Many states have their own template forms and it’s best to start with those. An attorney can amend the specif-ics as needed. Your doctor can also help you with the medical details for your documents. Your local Area Agency on Aging can help you locate the right forms. You can find your area agency phone number by calling the Eldercare Locator toll-free at 1-800-677-1116 or going online at www.eldercare.gov. - Communicate Your Wishes
Give copies of your forms to your healthcare agent and alternate agent. In addition, provide your doctor with a copy to keep with your medical records. Because you might change your directives in the future, it’s a good idea to keep track of who receives a copy. You might want to update documents if you have a serious diagnosis, get divorced or married, or if something happens to one of your named agents. Any changes made should also be communicated to your doc-tor and family members.
It’s impossible to predict all the variables that can occur regarding your health. Minimize confusion and help en-sure that your medical directives are honored by having the right documents in place.
The post Advanced Care Planning: It’s in the Details appeared first on University Health News.
Read Original Article: Advanced Care Planning: It’s in the Details »
Powered by WPeMatico
