Many people have strong beliefs about health care choices. They know what they want and what they don’t want. It might be easy enough for you to relay those wishes now but you should consider what will happen if you become incapacitated and can’t speak up for yourself.
Taking the time to outline your wishes about medical care now can save your loved ones some trouble if you become incapacitated. The advance directive provides instructions to your medical care team.
#1: You can file your advance directive with the Nevada Lockbox
The Nevada Lockbox is administered by the Secretary of State. It enables you to file your advance directives by uploading a living will, as well as several declarations that have to do with your medical care. You can also include the power of attorney designation. The assigned registration number enables health care professionals to access these documents when necessary.
#2: You need special forms for certain instructions
Certain health care decisions, such as refusing resuscitation, must be written out on special forms. Ensuring you have these handled can maximize the chance of your wishes being followed.
#3: Your advance directive guides your power of attorney
The person you name as your medical power of attorney will make decisions about your health care whenever something isn’t covered in the advance directives. There are times when they have some flexibility about what they decide, so be sure you choose someone who will follow your wishes.
The advance directive is only one part of your estate plan. Making sure you have everything together can help to provide stability for your loved ones if you become incapacitated or pass away. Working with someone who’s familiar with your wishes and who can help you to get everything set up to reflect those wishes can help to reduce your stress.