Coffee with Claire #8 – Commonly Asked Questions Blog Series
February 21, 2018
Do I need a Living Will/Health Care Directive?Writer’s note: This blog series is meant to act as responses to “quick” questions you may have for attorneys. Think of these answers as a “quick” answer you might receive over coffee from your friendly neighborhood attorney.
A Living Will, or Health Care Directive (HCD) is a document that tells medical personnel what you want when you can’t speak/communicate for yourself. The document appoints agents to act on your behalf. More information about HCDs can be found HERE.
But does a young, healthy adult need a HCD? In my opinion, yes. After someone turns 18, they no longer have an appointed health care agent (usually called Mom or Dad), and I believe it is prudent to always have someone who can speak on your behalf.
If you drive a car, take public transportation, or interact with other humans on a regular basis, there is a chance you might find yourself in the ER unexpectedly through an accident. This is where it is crucial to have a HCD.
Do not think a HCD is only for rich, old people. Some college campuses have HCDs available through their student health service. Or, if the HCD is all you need, it is extremely affordable through an attorney or other health care clinic. Do not let finances stop you from having a HCD.
If you have additional questions, or would like to get a HCD yourself, please contact Claire Tralle to set up a free initial telephone call.
The information in the Coffee with Claire series are intended to provide information only. No legal advice is being provided or implied via this blog post. No attorney-client relationship is formed by providing this information. An attorney-client relationship with Tralle Law, LLC is formed only after a retainer contact is signed by all parties.
As a physician, I am a big fan of Advanced Directives. Think of it as a gift to your family. If an event occurs where it is needed, frankly you won’t be there anymore. Your family will have incredible stress, and that piece of paper is your message to them, giving a direction they can follow.It does not have to be detailed as Minnesota only requires a statement of choice in who your spokesperson is, and then a notary or two witnesses. Honoring Choices Minnesota is a good website with more information and help in getting it done (and it can be done without a lawyer). When you give a copy to your selected person, plan on a long conversation about what things are important to you – and this is a topic that should be visited routinely. We so not want the same things at 80 as we do at 20.