When many plan their estates, their priorities are ensuring they can help care for and support their beneficiaries by deciding who will receive which assets. However, many are so concerned with taking care of others that they forget one very essential consideration – themselves! When planning your estate, taking the time to designate a healthcare proxy is crucial to protecting yourself. If you are unfamiliar with what this is or how they work, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about this important consideration and why enlisting the help of a Pasco County, FL healthcare surrogate designation lawyer is essential.
What Is a Healthcare Surrogate?
In Florida, a healthcare surrogate is someone you can have act on your behalf in the event you are unable to do so yourself. When someone becomes incapacitated, cannot communicate or it is deemed by their doctor that they do not understand the weight of their decisions, their treatment is left up to their next of kin. However, by appointing a healthcare surrogate, you have greater control over your care, as this person will advocate on your behalf.
It’s important to understand that this is limited to only healthcare decisions. They will not be able to make any other decisions for you. If you want to appoint someone to make medical and financial decisions in the event you are unable to, you’ll need to establish a durable power of attorney.
How Can I Establish One in Florida?
To establish a medical surrogate, you must choose a competent, legal adult to appoint to the role. Because this is your health on the line, you will have to have two other legal adults there as a witness when you sign the document.
Additionally, you’ll want to detail your wishes about the healthcare you receive. For example, if your moral or religious beliefs prevent you from receiving a particular type of treatment, your surrogate should be aware of this. You can also write down your wishes regarding specific treatments. If you do not leave instructions regarding a particular form of care, it will be left up to your surrogate to decide the kind of care you receive in those instances.
Our autonomy regarding healthcare is something we often take for granted, so taking the necessary steps to ensure your healthcare reflects your wishes is critical.
At the Law Offices of Matthew J. Jowanna, our dedicated team understands how important it is to make decisions regarding your health, which is why our team is ready to assist you during these matters. Connect with our team today to learn how we can help you establish a healthcare surrogate to provide peace of mind for the future.
