Trending
Most of us have experienced frustration one way or another in trying to access a doctor, get care or even get a question answered. Imagine how it is for our elders, perhaps with memory loss, or in other ways baffled by multiple voice prompts or lack of explanations. What can we do to help them when we see this?
The Advanced Health Care Directive
Our legal system gives anyone the opportunity to appoint someone to speak for us about any health issue when we need that help. The AHD, or advanced health care directive, also called "healthcare proxy", "power of attorney for health" and other names is a legal document that allows someone to speak for another about what would otherwise be confidential information.
Requirements
The AHD is a form the person making the appointment must fill out, or get help filling out. It is available online, from a doctor's office, clinic, hospital or other medical resource. The form describes what the person appointing another to speak for them is allowed to do. What is most important, as I see it, is that the form specifies what the individual wants at or near the end of life. It must be witnessed by someone who is not providing care, and another independent person. Or, it can be notarized. It is not a court document and other than a notary fee, there is generally no cost to get it done. Everyone needs to have this! It can be revoked or changed at any time. It must be honored by healthcare providers.
The AHD is not "part of" a will or trust. It is a separate document. You do not need a lawyer to prepare it nor to make it valid.
The Importance Of Choosing The Right Person ("agent")
Things happen every day that can impair our abilities to speak for ourselves or competently say what we want. Strokes, heart attacks, falls, car accidents, etc. can render a person unable to talk. When you are considering whom you would appoint, ask yourself if the person you are thinking of giving this power to is truly going to honor your wishes, not theirs. Further, are they willing to stand up for you when the time comes to assert your rights? A wimpy friend or someone living far away is not a good choice. If it's an elder who needs this, pick someone younger.
Example-What Not To Do
I did meet with an 84 year old who had no family. She said her friend down the street was her choice and had been appointed. I asked how old her friend was. "She's 90, and she's mostly blind," the woman said,"but I trust her". Oh, my, I thought. I persuaded her to fill out a new form and pick someone else who was younger, capable and could see.
Conclusions
Know that this document can avert arguments, hassles with medical providers and other conflicts. It gives the agent the right to get all medical records, speak with any doctor or other provider, insurer or health care worker. If you want your wishes honored, get it done.
Related: The Sandwich Generation Is Exhausted: A Realistic Approach to Self-Care That Fits Your Life