Hi friends! This week I want to talk about something important not only to those of us with health problems, but to everyone. A Health Care Directive. These documents will help you plan for the future of your care and make those wishes known to those who care for you. I have had one written up for years and plan to update it (and actually file it) with my main care providers. While, my family is well aware of my wishes, having it in writing is helpful for decision making in stressful situations. If you are new to this kind of stuff, I’ll provide you will the basics and resources you can use to get your wishes in order.
What is a Health Care Directive? Why is it important?
According to Honoring Choices Minnesota (2024), a health care directive, sometimes called a living will, is a document in which one can express their values and preferences. This document serves as a guide for your health care agent/decision maker, loved ones, and care providers. It provides crucial information about the type of care you desire and treatments you wish to avoid when circumstances prevent you from expressing your preferences directly.
How to get started with a Health Care Directive
You get started by thinking about your values, priorities, and goals for your care. Talking with your loved ones and sharing your thoughts will help them know what you want. Even if you’re close, they might not. Making your wishes known is the whole point of filling out and filing a document like this. If you are ever in a situation where you are unable to communicate, this (along with a health care agent) will speak for you.
What is a Health Care Agent?
While filling out the form, you’ll have the opportunity to assign said health care agent. When choosing someone to fill this role, you need to ask yourself the following:
- Do I trust this person to make tough decisions?
- Will they honor my choices, even if they don’t agree?
- Can they make important decisions in stressful situations?
- Will they stand up for me if my family or others disagree?
- Are they available in case of an emergency?
When I chose my health care agent, I knew that they would be able to do everything listed. That being said, both my family and health care agent are well aware that if they don’t I will haunt them until they die and then find them in the afterlife. So it is really in their best interest…haha
How Do I Complete a Health Care Directive?
You can get the form from your health care team, calling Honoring Choices, or vising Honoring Choices website. Most people can do this on their own, but Honoring Choices has people who can help you. Once the form is complete, you will need to sign it. However, depending on which state you live in the other signatures required can vary. In Minnesota, you need to have it signed by two people who are NOT your health care agent OR a notary public.
After it’s all done, you should give copies to your health care agent, loved ones who would likely be involved in you’re care, your primary care physician, and local hospital.
Other Important Questions:
Do I need a lawyer to complete my Health Care Directive?
No, as long as you’re at least 18 and able to understand/communicate your wishes.
When will my Health Care Directive be used?
As long as you can make your own choices, you control your care. However, if you can’t your health care team will follow your health care directive and health care agent.
Is my Health Care Directive valid in other states?
While every state has different rules, if you have your health care directive available they will follow it. Honoring Choices suggests keeping a copy with you when you travel, just in case.
A Real Life Example
This is a case we studied while I was in school heading for a career in health care. It’s a good example as to why a health care directive is important.
Remember to take care of yourselves and be safe out there! Seeyalaterbye <3
Also, if you feel called to help a sista out with her travels, check this out!
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