Incapacity Planning
COUNSELING CLIENTS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF PLANNING FOR INCAPACITY
When you need medical treatment, you have the right to refuse certain medications, procedures, or types of care. However, if you become incapacitated due to a serious injury, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or a coma, you will not be able to make these decisions for yourself. This does not mean you have to leave these decisions to the doctors, however, as you can draft specific documents to address these concerns as part of your comprehensive estate plan.
An Overview of Documents to Consider When Planning for Incapacity
Living will
An advanced directive regarding end-of-life treatment. The living will memorializes your wishes concerning your end of life care, such as whether you would like to receive life support if you are in a persistent vegetative state, terminal condition or end stage condition.
Florida Designation of Healthcare Surrogate
This is essentially a medical power of attorney. This document enables you to designate a person you trust to make medical decisions for you when you are otherwise unable to speak for yourself.
HIPAA Authorization Form
An important document that provides authorization for your healthcare surrogate to review and receive medical information on your behalf, without delay.
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