April is Advance Directives Awareness Month

by Kara Graziola

What is an advance directive?

An advance directive provides guidance regarding a person’s requests in the event that they are unable to direct their wishes for health care and treatments. Advance directives are an important aspect of planning

What are the different kinds of advance directives?

A Health Care Proxy (HCP) is a legally valid form which allows you to name someone (an agent) who would make health care decisions for you if you are unable to make or communicate those decisions. The agent can be a friend, family member or any person that you trust to make these important decisions for you. The HCP only goes into effect when your doctor determines that you are no longer able to make or communicate your health care decisions. You can find a HCP form online, at your doctor’s office or hospital.

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a document in which you authorize a person to manage your assets and financial affairs during your lifetime. Examples of responsibilities and transactions a POA can perform include property (real or personal), banking and investment transactions and estate planning. There is no requirement that a POA document be completed