What is an Advanced Medical Directive?

An Advanced Medical Directive, also known as a living will or healthcare directive, is a legally binding document that is used in Washington, in regards to disability planning law. It allows you to make decisions about your future medical care, in case you become incapacitated or unable to make those decisions yourself. Advanced Medical Directives are usually divided into two parts. The first part is called a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care. This part enables you to assign someone to make decisions about your medical care, if you can’t do it for yourself. The second part is called a Declaration about Medical Treatment, and it allows you to define the types of medical care that you would or wouldn’t like to receive. You can also specify whether you would or would not like to receive life-sustaining treatments. Advanced Medical Directives need to be in writing and witnessed, and they must follow Washington’s laws in order to be legally valid. Your doctor or hospital should be able to provide you with information on Advanced Medical Directives, or you can also find information online. It’s important to remember that if you create an Advanced Medical Directive, it’s not set in stone. You can always make changes to it if your wishes change.

Related FAQs

How can I protect the assets of my disabled family member?
What is a disability waiver?
How can I avoid probate?
What is a Vocational Rehabilitation Plan?
What is a disability attorney?
How does a disability lawyer help me?
What documentation do I need to apply for disability benefits?
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
What is a revocable trust?
What is a living will?

Related Blog Posts

Explaining the Basics of Disability Planning Law - July 31, 2023
Preparing a Comprehensive Estate Plan with Disability Planning Law in Mind - August 7, 2023
Creating an Estate Plan to Provide Financial Security for Individuals with Disabilities - August 14, 2023
Important Considerations When Drafting a Disability Planning Document - August 21, 2023
The Advantages of Working with a Disability Planning Lawyer - August 28, 2023