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Medical emergencies can happen when we least expect them. If you were unable to communicate, would your family know what medical treatments you want—or don’t want? Without clear instructions, doctors may make decisions based on standard protocols, not your personal values. Loved ones could be left guessing, and disagreements might arise. An advance healthcare directive (also known as a living will) gives you a voice. It ensures that your preferences are known and respected, sparing your family from difficult choices during stressful times.
What Is an Advance Healthcare Directive?
An advance healthcare directive is a legal document that outlines your medical preferences if you cannot communicate. It allows you to state whether you want life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, or other medical interventions in serious health situations. This document ensures that doctors and loved ones follow your wishes rather than making assumptions.
While Massachusetts law does not formally recognize a living will as a legally binding document, you can still create one to provide guidance to your family and medical providers. In addition, while an advance directive outlines your treatment preferences, it does not appoint someone to make decisions for you. For that, you need a healthcare proxy. Without these two documents, medical providers may follow standard protocols that might not reflect your personal values.
Why You Should Have an Advance Healthcare Directive
Without an advance healthcare directive, medical decisions may be left to doctors or family members who are unsure of your wishes. In urgent medical situations, doctors make treatment decisions based on general guidelines, which may not align with your desired care. An advance directive ensures that your choices for treatment, pain management, and life-sustaining measures are documented and respected.
This document also provides peace of mind for your loved ones. Making medical decisions for a family member can be stressful, especially in high-pressure situations. When your preferences are clearly outlined, your family can focus on supporting you rather than debating difficult choices.
Who Should Have an Advance Healthcare Directive?
Every adult, regardless of age or health status, should consider having an advance healthcare directive. While many people associate these documents with serious illness or aging, unexpected medical situations can arise at any time. A directive ensures that your treatment preferences are known, whether due to an accident, surgery, or a sudden health crisis.
If you have strong feelings about life-sustaining treatments, pain management, or specific medical interventions, an advance directive allows you to document those choices in advance. It is especially important if you have a chronic condition, a family history of serious illness, or personal beliefs that influence your healthcare decisions. Even if you are young and healthy, having a directive in place can prevent uncertainty and provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
How to Create an Advance Healthcare Directive
Creating an advance healthcare directive ensures that your medical preferences are known and respected. Here’s how to get started:
- Think about your medical wishes. Consider whether you want life-sustaining treatments such as CPR, ventilators, or feeding tubes in certain situations.
- Put your choices in writing. Clearly document your preferences for treatment, pain management, and end-of-life care.
- Discuss your wishes with loved ones. Talking to family members can help them understand your choices and prevent confusion later.
- Consult an attorney. A legal professional can help you draft an advance directive that accurately reflects your wishes.
- Keep it accessible. Provide copies to your doctor, family, and anyone involved in your care.
Review your directive periodically and update it as needed to reflect any changes in your health or preferences.
How We Can Help
At LaFountain & Wollman, P.C., we will help you create an advance healthcare directive that reflects your medical preferences and provides clarity for your loved ones. Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring your document is legally sound and easy to understand. If you also need a healthcare proxy, we can assist with that as well. Contact us today to take control of your healthcare decisions and protect your future.