What Are the Different Types of Advance Directives?
Advance directives allow individuals to document their healthcare preferences if they cannot communicate their wishes. At Pyle, Dellinger & Naylor, PLLC, we help clients in Volusia and Flagler counties create legally binding documents to honor their medical decisions. Understanding the different types of advance directives can help individuals make informed choices about their future care.
Living Will
A living will is a written statement that outlines an individual’s medical treatment preferences if they cannot communicate his or her wishes. This document typically covers life-sustaining treatments such as artificial respiration, feeding tubes, and resuscitation. In Florida, living wills must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, one of whom cannot be a spouse or blood relative. Having a will attorney in Daytona Beach, FL, draft a living will ensures that it aligns with state laws and accurately reflects the individual’s medical preferences.
Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
A durable power of attorney for healthcare, also known as a healthcare surrogate designation, allows an individual to appoint someone to make medical decisions if incapacitated. This person, a healthcare agent or proxy, can discuss treatment options with doctors, authorize medical procedures, and ensure the patient’s wishes are fulfilled. This document is essential for individuals who want a trusted person to oversee their medical care.
Working with estate planning attorneys in Daytona Beach, FL, ensures the document is executed correctly and legally valid. For guidance on estate planning matters, visit our practice areas to learn more.
Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR or other life-saving measures if a patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing. Unlike other advance directives, a DNR is issued by a physician and must be signed by the patient or the healthcare agent. This document is often used by individuals with serious illnesses who do not wish to receive aggressive medical intervention. Consulting with trust attorneys in Daytona Beach, FL, can help determine how a DNR fits within an overall estate plan.
POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)
A POLST form is a medical document that provides specific instructions for healthcare providers regarding emergency treatment. Individuals with advanced illnesses typically use it; the patient and a physician must sign it. Unlike a living will, which outlines general wishes, a POLST form provides immediate medical orders that healthcare professionals must follow.
Why Advance Directives Matter
Advance directives provide clarity and peace of mind by ensuring medical decisions align with an individual’s values and preferences. Without these documents, family members may face difficult choices without clear guidance. Additionally, legally enforceable directives can help prevent disputes and ensure medical providers respect the individual’s preferences. Daytona Beach, FL, estate planning attorneys can guide individuals through creating comprehensive advance directives that suit their needs.
Plan for Your Future with a Legally Binding Directive
Legal guidance is essential when drafting advance directives to ensure compliance with Florida laws. At Pyle, Dellinger & Naylor, PLLC, we provide personalized legal assistance to help clients establish clear, enforceable documents that protect their medical and financial interests. Whether you need a living will, a healthcare surrogate designation, or other advance directives, our firm is here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
