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Do You Have a Living Will?

Posted by Chris Peterson | Jun 25, 2013 | 0 Comments

Do You Have a Living Will?

HealthPrior to a hospital visit for a scheduled major surgery, most adults think about the possibility of death and consider preparing a living will. But if you are one of the millions of Americans undergoing an outpatient surgery in the U.S., have you considered the chance that something may go wrong leaving you unable to communicate your medical choices?

A living will, also known as an advance directive, is a legal document that allows you to identify your choices for medical treatment before you need it. A living will may also identify the person you want to make treatment choices for you. A signed advance directive is only followed in the event you become mentally or physically incapable of conveying your wishes regarding medical care. If you are unable to tell the doctor or your family members your wishes, doctors follow set protocol.

Texas law requires that patients are to be given enough information to make an educated choice regarding whether to consent to medical care. By law, an adult is entitled to be informed of any possible medical outcomes of refusing recommended medical care and to make his or her decisions. The four types of advance directives recognized in Texas are:

  • Medical Power of Attorney (formerly known as Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care)
  • Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates (commonly referred to as a Living Will)
  • Out-of-Hospital Do-Not Resuscitate Order
  • Declaration for Mental Health Treatment

If you or a loved one has an upcoming outpatient surgery, contact an experienced Bryan-College Station, Texas estate planning attorney who can provide the information and assistance you need to prepare a comprehensive estate plan today. Call the Peterson Law Group to make an appointment at 979-703-7014 or fill out our online contact form.

About the Author

Chris Peterson

Chris Peterson is the owner of Peterson Law Group. He practices primarily in the areas of wills, trusts and estate planning; probate and trust administration; elder law; and business law. Chris is also the owner of Brazos 1031 Exchange Company.

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