Advance directives empower individuals to control medical decisions, reduce uncertainty for loved ones, and avoid unwanted interventions. They provide clear instructions to physicians and healthcare teams, support timely treatment decisions, and help families navigate sensitive moments with less stress. Clear directives also help avoid court involvement when family choices diverge.
A well coordinated plan delivers consistent guidance to medical teams across settings, helping patients receive care that aligns with their stated wishes and values. It reduces confusion during transitions between facilities and home care, supporting calmer, more predictable outcomes.
We take a collaborative approach, listening to your goals, and translating them into clear documents that physicians and families can follow. Our process is transparent, respectful, and tailored to your unique family dynamics and health care needs.
We help you communicate your directives to hospitals and doctors so that medical teams have ready access when needed, reducing delays and misinterpretations.
An advance directive is a legal document that records your preferences for medical treatment and appoints a person to make decisions if you cannot communicate. It is essential because it guides health care providers and protects your wishes in situations where you may not be able to speak. Living wills address end of life care clearly.
Your healthcare proxy should be someone you trust to represent your values and communicate with doctors. Consider a primary proxy and a trusted alternate in case the first is unavailable. Discuss expectations, your goals, and how you want decisions to be made in different scenarios.
Yes, directives can be updated at any time as your health, relationships, or beliefs change. Regular reviews are recommended after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, or relocation. Keep copies current and notify your providers of any changes.
A living will records which treatments you want or do not want if you cannot communicate. A durable power of attorney for healthcare names a person to make decisions on your behalf. Both documents work together to ensure your wishes are followed across all care settings.
HIPAA rules protect medical information but allow disclosures to people you name in your directive or authorization. A HIPAA authorization specifies who may access your records, what information can be shared, and for how long, helping families stay informed while protecting privacy.
when multiple directives conflict, the medical team will determine the plan based on the most current and legally valid documents. It is important to keep a single up to date directive and inform your proxies and care providers of any changes.
Carry a copy of your directives, keep an updated list of medications, and provide contact information for your proxies and attorney. Share copies with the hospital or facility before admission to ensure smooth recognition of your wishes.
Store originals in a safe location and give copies to your proxy, physician, and family members. Consider a secure digital version and mention where the original is kept. Regularly review and update to maintain accuracy and accessibility.
Yes, you can include organ donation preferences in your directive. Many directives specify whether you want to donate organs or tissues and under what circumstances. Discuss with your physician and family to ensure your wishes are honored consistently.
To update your living will after a major life event, schedule a consultation with your attorney, review the changes in your health and goals, and revise the document accordingly. Share the updated version with your proxies and health care providers for immediate implementation.
