Health Care Directives

Last updated on September 4, 2024

Planning for future health care decisions can be daunting, but it is vital to help ensure your wishes are respected in times of crisis. Health care directives, also known as advance directives, allow you to outline your medical treatment preferences if you cannot communicate them yourself.

Baskin & Baskin, P.C., is a boutique firm specializing in domestic law. Representing clients in Northern Georgia for over four decades, attorney Carol Baskin will work with you to understand your needs and goals. She offers aggressive representation when necessary, providing guidance and support throughout the journey.

What Goes Into A Health Care Directive?

A health care directive has several key components. It often incorporates a living will, which outlines the types of medical treatment you would or would not like to receive in specific situations, such as life-sustaining measures or pain management.

The directive may also name a health care proxy or power of attorney for health care – a trusted individual who will make decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated.

You can also include preferences about organ donation, resuscitation orders and any other instructions that reflect your values and wishes.

Preparing Your Health Care Directive

Creating a health care directive involves thoughtful consideration of your values and medical preferences. It is good to take the time to discuss your wishes with your loved ones and your chosen healthcare proxy.

Preparing a health care directive is about documenting your wishes and ensuring those involved in your care understand and respect your decisions.

A family law attorney can guide you through this process, helping you think through various scenarios and confirming that your directive is clear and legally enforceable.

How An Attorney Can Help

While using online forms or DIY methods to create a health care directive may be tempting, working with an attorney provides invaluable benefits.

A lawyer can help you understand the complex legal and medical considerations, helping ensure your directive meets state requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.

They can also assist in reviewing and updating your documents as your circumstances or preferences change.

Plan For Peace Of Mind

Creating a health care directive is critical to safeguarding your future health care decisions. At Baskin & Baskin, P.C., attorney Carol Baskin can guide you through the process and help ensure your wishes are honored.

Call 770-679-3568 today to schedule a consultation.