Advanced Directives: Taking Control of Your Future Healthcare Decisions
When faced with a medical crisis, making healthcare decisions can be overwhelming—especially if you're unable to communicate your wishes. An advanced directive ensures that your medical preferences are documented and that a trusted representative can make decisions on your behalf if necessary.
At IC Law Group, we help individuals create clear, legally binding advanced directives that provide peace of mind and ensure your healthcare choices are honored.
What Is an Advanced Directive?
An advanced directive is a legal document that allows you to:
· Designate a healthcare representative to work with medical providers and make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
· Outline specific treatments you do or do not want, such as Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) orders or life-prolonging measures.
· Clarify your wishes about organ donation, ensuring they are respected.
Think of it as an insurance policy for your healthcare decisions—a way to eliminate uncertainty and prevent unnecessary medical interventions that may not align with your values.
Do I Need an Advanced Directive in Oregon?
At IC Law Group, we strongly recommend including an advanced directive in your estate plan. By making your healthcare wishes clear before a crisis arises, you can:
· Ensure you receive the care you want—and avoid treatments you do not want.
· Reduce stress and uncertainty for those responsible for making decisions on your behalf.
· Prevent potential legal disputes over your medical care.
Additionally, since advanced directives can be contested in court, we advise discussing your wishes not only with your designated healthcare representative but also with those closest to you. Open conversations help ensure everyone understands and respects your choices, reducing the risk of conflicts.
What Is a POLST—And Do I Need One?
In Oregon, individuals with advanced illnesses or life-threatening conditions may also consider a Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form. A POLST provides specific medical orders for emergency responders and healthcare providers regarding:
· Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
· Use of ventilators, feeding tubes, or other life-sustaining interventions
Unlike an advanced directive, which is broader in scope, a POLST is designed for patients nearing the end of life and should be reviewed regularly as medical conditions change.
If a POLST is appropriate for your circumstances, IC Law Group can guide you through the process and advise on where to keep the document for quick access by first responders.
Take Control of Your Healthcare Decisions Today
An advanced directive is more than a legal document—it's a statement of your values, priorities, and personal choices. At IC Law Group, we take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and ensure your directive aligns with your beliefs.
