When you are trying to make a sound estate plan, you probably consider adding trusts to preserve assets for your heirs. You may also worry about how to keep your family out of probate.
These concerns are valid but do not overlook yourself when planning your estate. Many Kingston, Tennessee, residents get so caught up in providing for loved ones that they fail to consider their own needs. If you have strong opinions on the type of medical care you want in case of a catastrophic illness or injury, this is especially crucial.
What can a health care directive do for you?
Through estate planning, you can decide the kind of medical care you would like if you should fall seriously ill or suffer a devastating injury. If your condition is severe enough, you might not be able to speak your wishes aloud. Advance health care directives ensure your wishes are filled even if you cannot express them.
You can not only specify the types of treatment you want, but you can also decide when not to accept treatment. For example, if you suffer severe injuries in an accident and are left lingering in a vegetative state, you can choose to be removed from life support. The same goes if you are a senior citizen and fall seriously ill with little chance of recovery.
How do medical providers know your wishes?
When you create advance directives, you will also appoint a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf. They will use the information outlined in your estate planning documents to guide them in this process. Your agent can inform your medical team about your wishes so that they will know what to do and what not to do on your behalf.
We encourage you to learn more about how advance medical directives can strengthen your estate plan. Our website contains many valuable resources for your review.
