Health care directives are legal documents that allows you to make decisions regarding medical treatments, in the event that you cannot make those decisions yourself. A health care directive typically covers decisions surrounding medical care, sources of financial support, and end-of-life care wishes. Here, we’ll dive into what a health care directive is, why it matters, and how to create one.
What Is a Health Care Directive?
A health care directive is a legal document that allows you to specify your wishes regarding medical or health care decisions in the event that you become unable to make them yourself. The document specifies who is appointed to make these decisions, if there is someone available. Otherwise, the document will provide your specified instructions for medical care.
Your defined health care directive will include all medical treatment you would like to receive, resources you may need to receive the care, and any end-of-life wishes you want to express.
Why Does a Health Care Directive Matter?
The purpose of a health care directive is to provide an easy and direct way for you to make decisions about your health. It allows you to outline your expectations and preferences for different types of medical treatments, and you can also state your wishes if you become incapacitated and cannot make decisions for yourself. A health care directive also provides greater organization and clarity for your medical decisions.
Moreover, in the event of a medical emergency, such as being admitted to a hospital due to an injury, having a health care directive will help provide direction for health care providers and minimize confusion about what treatments should be provided. Additionally, it will reduce any potential disagreements with family, friends, or doctors about what treatments should be given.
How to Create a Health Care Directive
To create a health care directive, you should discuss your wishes and decisions with family and friends to ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of your wishes. Additionally, you should consider reaching out to an attorney to ensure everything is properly documented. An attorney can help you create a health care directive that meets your needs and is legally valid.
Creating a health care directive is an important step in any health plan. By having a health care directive, you can be certain that the people who care for you understand what kind of medical treatments and decisions you want and need. Having an up-to-date and organized health care directive can provide you with peace of mind for the future.