Q: Does completing your Advance Directives cost money?
A: No! Establishing your Advance Directives is free. Click here to request a consultation appointment to learn more.
Q: Are Advance Directives required?
A: Establishing your Advance Directives is not required, however it is highly recommended! This is the best way to ensure your personal healthcare choices are taken into account when you are not able to speak for yourself.
Q: I’m under 40 years old. Do I need to have an Advance Directive?
A: Yes! Any person over the age of 18, who can make their own decisions, should establish their Advance Directives!
Q: What happens if I do not have Advance Directives and become unable to make my own healthcare decisions?
A: If you do not have a Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will, or Code Status established under an Advance Directive, a legal guardian named by the state becomes the decision maker. The Order of Decision Makers for the State of Ohio are:
- Spouse
- Adult Children (the majority decision)
- Parents
- Adult Siblings (the majority decision)
- Other nearest relative
Q: Can I write my Advance Directives on my own document? Or do I have to use a standardized form?
A: Per the Ohio Revised Code, Advance Directives are only valid when using approved state forms. Click here to access the Western Reserve Hospital provided packet.
Q: How is the decision made that I can’t make my own decisions?
A: Two physicians must determine your decision-making capacity and/or if life-saving and recovery is possible.
Q: Does my Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney also have control of my finances?
A: No. The Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney can only speak on your behalf with regards to healthcare decisions. Delegating a Financial Power of Attorney requires a different state mandated process.
Q: What happens if I change my mind regarding my Advance Directives?
A: You can change your Advance Directives whenever you wish. A new form would need to be completed, signed by two witnesses or notarized. All included parties and medical providers would need to be provided with a new copy.
Q: Who should receive a copy of my Advance Directives?
A: Your designated Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney, loved ones who may help with your care, any medical facilities or providers you may use or see regularly.
Q: How do I chose my Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney?
A: Your Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney should be someone you trust who would be available in case of an emergency. Use their helpful sheet to evaluate your options.
Q: Can my Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney override my Advance Directives?
A: No! Your completed Advance Directives are a legal document communicating your end-of-life and healthcare choices.
Q: If I have a Financial Power of Attorney, can they make my healthcare decisions?
A: No, only a designated Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney can make healthcare decisions on your behalf.