Define: Health Care Directive

A health care directive, also known as a living will, is a legal document that outlines your wishes for medical treatment in the event that you are unable to communicate your preferences.

No, you do not necessarily need a lawyer to create a health care directive. However, it is recommended to consult with a legal professional to ensure that your document meets all legal requirements.

Yes, you can change your health care directive at any time as long as you are of sound mind. It is important to review and update your directive periodically to reflect any changes in your medical preferences.

Your health care agent should be someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This person should be familiar with your values and wishes regarding medical treatment.

Yes, you can include specific instructions about the types of medical treatments you do or do not want to receive in your health care directive.

If you do not have a health care directive, medical decisions will be made by your family members or a court-appointed guardian based on their understanding of your wishes.

In most cases, your health care directive will take precedence over the wishes of your family members. However, it is important to discuss your directive with your loved ones to ensure they understand and respect your choices.

Yes, you can revoke your health care directive at any time by destroying the document, creating a new directive, or expressing your wishes to your health care provider.

Yes, it is important for individuals of all ages and health statuses to have a health care directive in place in case of unexpected medical emergencies.

It is important to keep your health care directive in a safe and accessible place, and to provide copies to your health care agent, family members, and health care providers.