Pennsylvania, and the country, are facing a difficult time due to the ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic. In addition to social distancing and staying safe, planning for the future with an advance directive and healthcare power of attorney is important.
Healthcare Power of Attorney
What is a healthcare power of attorney? This document appoints a person to make medical decisions on the patient’s behalf. It is used when the patient is incapacitated, or unable to communicate.
Advance Directive
What is an advance directive, also called a living will? A living will is a document that clearly details a person’s end of life wishes to their family. For example, if it is a patient’s wish not to be placed on a ventilator, or have certain types of medication, or other wishes, they can formally state that wish in the document.
Why do I need these Documents?
If you become ill to the point that you are incapacitated or unable to communicate your wishes, a healthcare power of attorney will allow a trusted family member or friend to make medical decisions on your behalf. The living will helps to make your wishes clear. This is important so that your power of attorney will not need to guess about the choices you would have made for critical medical care. Recently CNN reported about the difficulty that patients and families are having due to the restrictions in hospitals caused by the pandemic.
How do I get a Healthcare Power of Attorney or Living Will?
An attorney can draft either, or both, of these documents for you. Here at Graham & Mauer, our attorneys can walk you through the process, and answer any questions you may have. We are currently working remotely, but are available to meet client via phone, email, or video conferencing. If you want to protect your wishes in the case of an emergency or crisis, call Graham & Mauer today for a free consultation.