Making decisions about your health is something you may not think twice about. However, it’s important to consider what happens when you aren’t able to express your wishes. Unfortunately, this can be an incredibly helpless feeling. As such, it’s imperative to understand what you can do to ensure your medical care reflects your needs. You can ensure this through Advanced Healthcare Directives. The following blog explores what this includes and why everyone should consider working with a Medina County, Ohio Advanced Healthcare Directive lawyer who can assist you with establishing this document.

What Are Advanced Healthcare Directives?

Advanced Healthcare Directives are estate planning tools that allow individuals to establish the care they would like to receive should they become incapacitated or unable to explicate their wishes. This could be because they have sustained injuries that prevent them from communicating, are in a coma, or do not have the mental capacity to understand the decisions they are being presented with. An Advanced Healthcare Directive encompasses a Living Will and Healthcare Power of Attorney.

A Living Will is a document that allows you to carefully and clearly explicate the kind of healthcare you would like to receive. For example, you can detail whether or not you want certain types of care, like CPR or intravenous feeding tubes, what you would like to happen in the event you are declared brain dead, and whether or not you would like your organs donated.

In conjunction with a Living Will, you’ll want to consider appointing a Medical Power of Attorney. This person has the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf based on the wishes you’ve expressed in your Living Will. Should a situation arise that is not covered in your Living Will, your Power of Attorney will be responsible for making the decision if you are unable to.

Who Should Consider Creating One?

When estate planning, there is a common misconception that only the elderly or chronically ill should consider putting plans in place. However, this is far from the truth. Everyone should consider creating an Advance Healthcare Directive. Unfortunately, accidents can happen and leave you unable to communicate your desires. You may not think twice about making decisions regarding your healthcare until you are no longer able to. As such taking the time to detail your options is critical.

At Krause Law, we understand how complicated these matters can be. Our firm will do everything possible to assist you through these matters to ensure you know your legal options. When you need help, our firm is here. Connect with us today to learn how we can guide you through this process so you can have peace of mind for the future of your care.