Share:

Estate planning involves several different steps, from ensuring your properties are transferred to the correct beneficiaries to assigning guardians for children. Establishing a healthcare power of attorney is another important consideration to make, as this allows your wishes to be carefully followed regarding medical care. As you prepare your estate documents, utilize this guide when selecting your healthcare power of attorney.

What is a Healthcare Power of Attorney?

A healthcare power of attorney is a legal document that is drafted to designate an individual to be your representative in medical decisions. Whether you are unconscious or unable to clearly communicate or make your own decisions, this document will allow your selected agent to determine what type of care you require.

When selecting your representative, it’s critical to choose someone you trust to make potential end-of-life decisions for you. This will entail things such as your life support preferences—if and how long you want to be placed on it—as well as the measures you want medical staff to take to keep you alive.

How Do You Get a Healthcare Power of Attorney?

estate planningWhen having this type of legal document drafted, it’s best to hire a lawyer who is familiar with the process. There are many intricacies when making decisions for end-of-life care and a professional will guide you through each step to ensure your wishes are fulfilled. A healthcare power of attorney can be as simple as declaring what type of care you do and do not want, or as extensive as defining multiple medical procedures and your preferences for each.

Because state laws can vary, it is vital to revisit your healthcare power of attorney if you have recently relocated or are planning a move. This part of estate planning can be reviewed by a lawyer to ensure your guidelines will be met—regardless of where you reside.

 

If you want to begin estate planning but aren’t sure where to start, consult the legal team at Stayton Law in Oregon. Whether you are looking for an experienced elder law attorney or need help drafting a healthcare power of attorney, these professionals have the experience and skills required to execute your instructions and wishes. To learn more about your medical options, visit them online or call (503) 769-7741.

tracking