For most people, estate planning is not a one-time process. As time passes, many of the documents in your estate plan should be reviewed and revised. Your advance health care directive is no different. This important document allows you to express your health care wishes and appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Every few years, this document should be reviewed to determine whether revisions are necessary.
Consider These 8 Provisions When Updating Your Advance Health Care Directive
After reviewing your existing advance health care directive, what types of provisions may need to be added? The following are eight examples:
- Give specific instructions with regard to your health care.
- Name a new or an alternate agent to make health care decisions on your behalf.
- Express your wishes regarding organ donation.
- Designate your primary care physician.
- Express your wishes with regard to the withholding or withdrawal of treatment necessary to keep you alive.
- Express your wishes with regard to pain relief.
- Authorize an autopsy.
- Direct how your remains should be handled, such as cremation or burial.
Before making any type of update to your estate plan, it is important to consult with an attorney who can help you understand all of your options. Your lawyer will also help to ensure that your estate plan modifications are carried out properly. We are here to provide guidance throughout this important process. Contact us today at (714) 282-7488 for more information.
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