Why Designate a Healthcare Surrogate?
Securing your future and ensuring that your wishes are respected requires drafting a comprehensive estate plan. Many people are aware of the importance of drafting a will so their property is distributed according to their wishes after they pass away and to name a guardian for their minor children. However, there are other legal tools you can use to make sure your wishes are fulfilled not only after you are gone, but during your lifetime, as well. One of these is a healthcare surrogate. Below, our Tampa healthcare surrogate lawyer explains the benefits of these legal documents.
What is a Healthcare Surrogate?
Also known as a healthcare power of attorney, a healthcare surrogate is an individual who will have the ability to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you even become incapacitated. It is important to speak with your healthcare surrogate extensively about the medical care you want to receive, or do not want to receive. A healthcare surrogate can only carry out your wishes if they know what they are, so it is important to choose a trusted person who fully understands your preferences.
Make Things Easier for Your Family
If you ever suddenly become sick or injured and do not have the capacity to make your own medical decisions, your family members will have to decide if you do not have a healthcare surrogate. Your family members will already be going through a difficult time and the responsibility of making these decisions will only make things harder for them. Disputes may also arise that only make the situation more challenging. Designating a healthcare surrogate can avoid this.
Protect Your Personal Values
For many people, receiving healthcare that aligns with their own personal and religious values and beliefs is of utmost importance. For example, a person may avoid certain foods due to dietary restrictions such as choosing a vegetarian lifestyle. Or, many people refuse blood transfusions due to religious beliefs. A healthcare surrogate will ensure that your personal values and beliefs are protected and that any medical treatment you receive will not conflict with them.
Complement Other Legal Documents
A healthcare surrogate can also complement other legal documents, such as a living will. While a living will outlines the end-of-life medical care you do or do not want to receive, a healthcare surrogate provides more flexibility and can address unforeseen situations.
Our Healthcare Surrogate Lawyer in Tampa Can Help
A comprehensive estate plan does not only protect your loved ones after you pass away. Including important documents such as a healthcare surrogate can also ensure that you have the protection you may need during your lifetime, too. At Messina Law Group, P.A., our Tampa healthcare surrogate lawyer will listen to your goals and draft the documents you need to ensure they are executed properly and will be enforced by the courts. Call us now at (813) 492-7798 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help with your case.
Source:
floridabar.org/public/consumer/consumer003/
