Establish Thorough Healthcare Directives In Helotes, TX
When it comes to preparing for unforeseen circumstances, it’s crucial to think ahead regarding your healthcare decisions. At Bineham and Gillen, we understand the importance of planning for the unexpected. One essential aspect of planning is establishing a healthcare directive in case you become incapacitated. Our estate planning lawyers explain the concept of a directive for care and why it’s a vital component of your plan.
Advance Directive vs. Living Will: How They Differ
It’s important to understand the distinction between an advance directive and a living will healthcare directive. Here’s a breakdown of the two:
- Advance directive — Often includes both a medical power of attorney and a living will
- Living will — Focuses specifically on decisions related to life-sustaining treatment and the withdrawal of such treatment if you are terminally ill or in a vegetative state
Both documents are vital for ensuring that your healthcare decisions align with your values. The advance directive gives you broader control, while the living will addresses specific treatment preferences.
What Is An Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care in the event you become incapacitated and are unable to communicate your wishes. It helps ensure that your healthcare providers and loved ones know your desires about medical treatments and other vital decisions when you’re not in a position to make them yourself.
The two most common types of advance directives are living wills and medical power of attorney. These documents prevent unnecessary confusion or conflict among family members and ensure your preferences are followed.
Living Will Healthcare Directive: What It Means For You
A living will can be part of a healthcare directive. It’s a specific form of advance directive that focuses on your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. It allows you to state whether you want to receive specific medical treatments if you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness or become permanently unconscious.
Some key decisions covered in a living will include:
- Whether to administer life support
- The use of resuscitation efforts like CPR
- The continuation or withdrawal of feeding tubes and other forms of artificial nutrition
- The use of ventilators
By establishing a living will, you give clear instructions on how you want medical professionals to proceed in the event you cannot make decisions for yourself.
When Should You Create An Advance Directive?
You should create an advance directive as soon as possible, ideally while you’re in good health and have the ability to make clear decisions about your future care. Creating these documents early ensures that your wishes are known, and they can be updated as your preferences change over time. Moreover, it provides a clear legal framework for your healthcare team and family members in case of an emergency.
If you’re unsure about how to get started, Bineham and Gillen is here to guide you through the process. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights, explain the legal nuances of these documents and ensure that your wishes are legally binding.
Protect Your Healthcare Choices With Bineham & Gillen
A healthcare directive is an essential part of estate planning. Bineham and Gillen is committed to helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare future. Whether you’re creating a living will or need help understanding advance directives, our experienced team in San Antonio is ready to assist.
By planning ahead with these legal documents, you can provide peace of mind to your loved ones and ensure that your healthcare decisions reflect your values. Reach out to Bineham and Gillen today to start your journey to secure your future.
