With the current pandemic, it’s important to think about our medical care and preferences should we be in a state that requires immediate intervention.
Recently a friend drove himself to the hospital in the middle of the night with respiratory problems. The hospital took him into ICU and gave him a test for COVID-19. They isolated him, without a phone and no visitors, until they could get the test back. That took a week for the results. It turns out he has double pneumonia but no COVID; he is weak and recovering, and on his way to a nursing home soon.
The point is, in these times of isolation, you may not have family close by, able to help when you need to go to the hospital. Which is why having an Advance Directive on file before something happens is vitally important.
The term ‘advance directive’ refers to your oral and written instructions about your future medical care in the event you are unable to express your medical wishes.
It is important to let your physician and loved ones know your wishes for treatment should you ever be unable to express them yourself. Most health facilities assume you want all available medical treatment, including life-sustaining care, unless you direct otherwise. Advance directives can help clarify your preferences when medical professionals need to make these decisions.
You can read more about Advance Directives on the Washington State Medical Association website.
It is important to get these documents on file with your physicians while you are well, so that if the time comes when you cannot express your desires, it will already be on record. These documents should and can be submitted to both civilian physicians as well as the VA Healthcare system, and should be reviewed periodically.
If you’re looking for someone local to help explain the document and get it filled out, reach out to Ken Mattson with LegalShield.
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Ken Mattson LegalShield Associate Small Business Solutions 509-679-9659 ksment45@gmail.com Kennethmattson.wearelegalshield.com |
