July 2007 Edition

A NOTE FROM DCO BETTY

?? Healthcare ??

Here are some frequently asked questions in regards to health care.   

1.  Does a health care proxy give a health care agent authority to only make decisions about life-sustaining treatment?

No.  A health care agent can make all health care decisions that the patient could make while capable, from routine treatment decisions to decisions about life-sustaining treatments, unless stated otherwise by the person who writes the proxy form.

2.  Why is it important to name someone as your health care agent? 

If you do not have a health care agent, your doctor may be required to provide you with medical treatment that you would have refused if you were able to do so.  This is particularly important for treatments that will keep you alive even if you have no hope of recovery.

3.  Won’t my spouse or family be able to make decisions about my health care? 

At this time in New York, the only way to ensure that someone you trust will be able to make decisions about your health care is to appoint a health care agent.  Family members have no legal authority to make decisions for you.

4.  When is it important to name a health care agent and to have a conversation about health decisions and how you want to be cared for in the last phase of your life?

Anytime and soon, while you are able to understand your medical condition and able to share your wishes.  Because this is a difficult discussion many people put it off until a health crisis forces the conversation.   It is much easier to have this conversation before important decisions need to be made.

5.  Who can be a health care agent?

Any adult (18 or older).  If you select a doctor, he or she will have to choose between acting as your agent or being your doctor.

6.  When does my health care agent assume responsibility for my care?

Only when your doctor determines that you are unable to make decisions.

7.  When does a living will come into effect?

A living will is used as a guide when your health care agent and others must make decisions for you and takes effect when you have an irreversible or terminal illness.

8.  Will doctors and health care providers follow advance directives?

A health care proxy is a legal document and doctors are required to follow its instructions.  It is important to share a copy with your physician and discuss it with him or her. 

9.  Do I need a lawyer to complete an advance directive?

No, a lawyer is not needed.  Also you do not need to notarize your advance directive documents.

 Hopefully you have found this information helpful.  If you would like more information or would like to receive a “Health File” where all of this information can be placed on the refrigerator, contact me.  

Betty

More In This Issue:

• Brief Notes - This & That
• Council and Committee Reports
• Birthdays and Anniversaries
• Church Calendar of Events

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Rev. Robert Morris, Pastor | Deb Martin, Editor | Church Office: 585.593.3311 | E-mail: telco@trinitywellsville.org