An "Advance Directive", sometimes referred to as a health care directive, is a term for the family of legal documents in Florida that include your Designation of Healthcare Surrogate and Living Will.  

Advanced Directives are essential legal documents that allow individuals to write out their medical preferences and end of life decisions in the event they become unable to communicate or make decisions for themselves. These directives provide clear guidance to healthcare providers and family members, ensuring that an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care are respected.

One key aspect of advanced directives is the designation of a healthcare proxy or durable power of attorney for health care. This individual is entrusted with making medical decisions on behalf of the individual if they are unable to do so. The healthcare proxy should be someone trusted by the individual, well-informed about their values and preferences, and willing to advocate for their wishes in medical situations.

Health care directives often address a range of medical interventions, including decisions about life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, organ donation, and palliative care. By clearly outlining preferences in advance, individuals ensure that their medical care aligns with their values and beliefs. These directives serve as a valuable tool in fostering communication between patients, their families, and healthcare providers, ultimately promoting patient autonomy and dignity in medical decision-making. It's crucial for individuals to regularly review and update their health care directives to reflect any changes in preferences or circumstances, ensuring that the document accurately represents their current wishes.

Advanced Directives are just one part of a large estate plan.  Contact our office today and discuss your estate plan!