When most people think about estate planning, they picture wills and trusts that determine what happens after death. While those are essential components, a truly comprehensive estate plan should also address how decisions will be made during your lifetime if you are unable to make them yourself. This is where healthcare directives and powers of attorney come into play.
What Is a Health Care Power of Attorney?
A health care power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Without this document, your family could face delays and legal hurdles in deciding on your care—especially if loved ones disagree about the best course of action.
Why Add a Living Will?
A living will works alongside your health care power of attorney to outline your preferences for medical treatment in specific end-of-life care scenarios. For example, it can address whether you wish to receive life-sustaining treatments like artificial ventilation or feeding tubes. This ensures your loved ones aren’t burdened with guessing your wishes during an already emotional time. Your loved ones might also opt for more intervention than you would have wished for yourself, so getting your intentions in writing is crucial.
The Importance of HIPAA Authorization
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects the privacy of your medical information. While this is beneficial, it can also prevent your loved ones from accessing critical information about your condition. A HIPAA authorization allows you to designate individuals who can receive your medical information, ensuring that your decision-makers have the information they need to act on your behalf.
Planning for the Unexpected
While no one likes to imagine a medical emergency, accidents and sudden illnesses can happen to anyone at any age. Proactively including healthcare directives in your estate plan not only protects your interests but also provides peace of mind for your loved ones.
How We Can Help
At Windrose Law Center, we understand that a well-rounded estate plan goes beyond distributing your assets. Our team is here to guide you through creating health care directives, powers of attorney, and other essential documents tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation and ensure your wishes are honored, both now and in the future.