Imagine being incapacitated and unable to communicate your medical wishes due to a serious injury or sudden illness. Family members may have different opinions on what should be done, which can lead to disagreements and strained relationships among loved ones.
Your family members may, for example, argue over medical treatments or procedures that should be carried out on you, your living arrangements or end-of-life wishes. This scenario is all too common and can lead to prolonged disputes. However, such situations can be avoided with an advance healthcare directive.
How advance healthcare directives work
An advance healthcare directive is a legally enforceable document that outlines your wishes or choices regarding medical treatment if you become incapacitated. It ensures that healthcare providers and family members know your medical preferences.
You can specify the type of medical treatment you want or don’t want with advance healthcare directives. This can include life-sustaining measures like mechanical ventilation, feeding tubes or resuscitation. You can also decide the medical procedures that doctors should not conduct on you during incapacitation.
You may also appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf or follow through with your instructions.
Take control of your medical affairs
Advance directives can help loved ones navigate difficult situations. You will also have peace of mind knowing your voice will be heard even when you cannot speak for yourself. However, it is important to do everything right and avoid costly blunders.
As a legal document, an advance directive must meet certain criteria to be valid and enforceable. You do not want to make mistakes that could invalidate your directives. Seeking legal guidance can help you learn more about how advance healthcare directives work and craft a legally sound and comprehensive incapacitation plan.