The Need for an Advanced Medical Directive
An advance medical directive typically has two parts: a health care proxy and a living will. The healthcare proxy, or power of attorney for health care, designates a person, such as a spouse or trusted friend, who can legally act as your agent, making medical decisions for you if you are incapacitated. Meanwhile, the living-will portion describes the type of care you would want if you are critically ill.
While most Americans do not have an advanced medical directive, the author implores that Americans consider creating these end-of-life guidelines, which would prove beneficial for family members when the unexpected happens.
Special thanks to Trina Montalban (attorney, Kell, Alterman & Runstein, L.L.P., Portland, Oregon) for bringing this article to my attention.