A living will is a legal document that specifies your wishes regarding medical treatments when you become incapacitated or are in a permanent vegetative state. A living will won’t become active until this has occurred. However, there are many instances in which you may not be able to make decisions for yourself regarding your medical care, but your living will is not going to become active. For example, if you are rendered unconscious – such as from an accident or a heart attack – but are not going to become permanently incapacitated, your living will would not become active.

In this situation, you would need to designate a health care proxy. A health care proxy is someone who you legally authorize to make medical decisions on your behalf when you are unable to, but before your living will takes effect. To designate a health care proxy, you must consult an attorney for the proper legal documentation. Although there are some “do it yourself” health care proxy forms out there, they are rarely taken seriously by doctors and hospital staff. Ensure that your wishes are respected and honored and your health care proxy is allowed to make medical decisions on your behalf should you be unable to make decisions yourself.

Grogan & Souto, P.C. are available now to assist you with designating a health care proxy. We will not only help you draw up the required paperwork, but can also consult with you and your health care proxy regarding your wishes. Contact us today for a consultation. (845) 294-6155.