This is a document that has so many different names it could be in the Witness Protection Program. You might know this one as a Living Will, Health Care Directive, Advance Directive, Advance Health Care Directive, and Do Not Resuscitate.
No matter what it’s called, the purpose of this document is to give medical providers instructions on what to do in certain near-death situations. This is most often used to address the unlikely situation that you are on life support with no reasonable chance of recovery.
A health care directive would allow your doctor to let you die in peace without artificially prolonging your life, at great emotional and financial cost to your family.
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Healthcare directives can be highly personal and address your preferences for all the following:
- CPR or an electric shock to resuscitate your heart
- Feeding tubes
- Artificial hydration
- Comfort care and drugs to reduce pain
- Antibiotics
- Ventilators and artificial breathing
The type of situation where a health care directive is often needed is what is commonly referred to as a “pull the plug” situation. It avoids unnecessary treatments and allows you to convey your values and wishes in an end-of-life situation.
Having doctors prolong your life when you are incapacitated with no reasonable chance of recovery can come at a great cost to your family, emotionally and financially. Having a health care directive in place can allow you to pass away on your own terms without becoming a burden to the people you love.
Knowledgeable | Practical | Compassionate
At Eastside Estate Planning we focus exclusively on estate law and offer reasonable flat fees, depending on your individual needs. With 10 years of legal experience and an advanced tax degree, Robert is an expert at explaining complex estate planning concepts simply and advising his clients to make the best decision. Interested in learning more about our services?
Visit our website for more information, or schedule a free consultation with Robert to receive a personalized quote.
Service Areas:
Eastside Estate Planning is dedicated to providing estate planning, last will, and trusts services to individuals and families in the following areas:
Bellevue | Redmond | Monroe | Duvall
If you reside in any of these locations and are in need of professional estate planning assistance, we are here to help. Robert is committed to delivering personalized and top-quality estate planning solutions to clients within these cities. Contact us today to discuss your estate planning needs and secure the future of your assets and loved ones.
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