Medical Decisions Regarding End of Life
A patient has a great degree of latitude when it comes making end of life decisions. For example, you can choose whether or not the medical team will preserve your life using machines if your condition is fatal, irreversible, or if there is a medical degree of certainty that you will never regain consciousness. You also have decisions that involve weighing certain forms of treatment versus the risks and side effects.
The way that you make these decisions in advance is by executing an advance health care directive. In California, you can make medical decisions in advance by means of this document, and you can appoint a surrogate to give voice to your wishes if you are unconscious or otherwise incapacitated.
When you make these kinds of decisions in advance, it shows concern and love for your family, who would otherwise have to make these decisions without you and maybe amidst a great deal of disagreement. Executing an advance medical directive provides clear instructions, which benefits decision-makers and ensures that your personal wishes are carried out.
Preparing an Advance Medical Directive in California
Every state has its own laws regarding advance medical decisions, so you should enlist the help of an estate planning attorney to ensure your document is worded correctly. The estate planning attorneys at Petrov Law Firm can help you to execute an advance medical directive and other estate planning documents. Call our San Diego office today at 619-344-0360 to learn more.
