Health Care Planning
What we can offer youAn important, and fairly straightforward part of estate planning that is sometimes overlooked is Health Care Planning. There could come a time in your life when you are unable to make your own Health Care decisions. The good news is, you can make some of those important decisions now.
Here at The Siegel Law Group, P.A., we are here not only to help you execute these documents and decisions, but also to inform you and educate you on your options for Health Care Planning.
Health Care Advance Directives
In Florida, an Advance Health Care Directive, or simply Advance Directive, has two parts: a Living Will and Health Care Surrogate Designation. This two part Medical Directive not only names someone your proxy for Health Care decisions, but also gives them a clear picture of your desire for treatment at the end of your life.
Lawyer Barry D. Siegel has almost 20 years of experience helping South Florida residents with all matters of Estate Planning, including:
- Living Wills
Not to be confused with a Living Trust, a Living Will simply details your wishes concerning your end-of-life medical decisions and care, especially pertaining to treatments and procedures that would artificially prolong your life. If there comes a time when you are unable to give informed consent, a Living Will can speak for you.
- Health Care Surrogate Designations
The Designation of Health Care Surrogate allows you to name another person to make Health Care decisions for you if you are incapacitated or unable. This proxy can be a spouse or partner, a relative, or even a close friend. This can also be known as Medical or Health Care Power of Attorney.It is important that your proxy understands the responsibilities of making your Health Care decisions. They should have an understanding of both your health history and your desires for treatment, as well as be able to communicate and advocate those desires.
HIPAA Authorization and Release
Under HIPAA, or the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act, Health Care providers cannot disclose your health information to anyone, including your spouse, children and other family members, unless you specifically give them that authority through a signed authorization and release.
We can help you get the informed HIPAA Authorization and Release needed so that your loved ones can be informed about your care.
Arrange Your Complimentary Consultation Today
It’s never too early to start planning for these Health Care decisions. Call us today at 561-955-8515 to set up a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with lawyer Barry D. Siegel. We have offices in Boca Raton and throughout South Florida to better serve you.