What is advance healthcare planning and how can I do it?
Advance healthcare planning is the process of thinking ahead and taking steps to ensure that your preferences and wishes for end-of-life medical care are known and respected by your healthcare providers. It allows you to plan ahead for what you want to happen, and avoid the burden of decision-making from falling to your family members or doctors in the event of an emergency or advanced illness. In North Dakota, you have the right to make your own decisions about your medical care. Advance healthcare planning allows you to make those decisions ahead of time so that they are still respected if you are unable to speak for yourself in a medical situation. You can appoint someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you become unable to make them yourself, make your own healthcare decisions directly, or use a combination of both. The best way to do advance healthcare planning is to get educated on your end-of-life care options and begin the conversation with your doctor, family, and close friends. There are a few forms you can fill out to record your wishes, the most common of which is a Healthcare Power of Attorney, or POA. This document is important to have if you wish to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions for you in the event of an emergency. If you have questions about advance healthcare planning, you can reach out to your local Elder Law attorney for more information. They will be able to help you understand your options and ensure you are making informed decisions.
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