Any time you check into a hospital or prepare for surgery, the health care provider will ask for a living will or heath care directive. Often, the provider will have a form for you to complete if you haven’t already prepared one yourself. As part of your estate planning package a Health Care Directive and Medical Power of Attorney is included. Completing this form in advance of any medical treatment gives you time to think your answers through regarding difficult topics. This form requires decisions regarding life-sustaining procedures and who you would like to appoint as an agent to make health care decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. Failure to name an agent in advance may necessitate a court appointing a guardian for you to make difficult medical decisions on your behalf.
The Nevada State Legislature has approved a form to be recognized and used throughout Nevada. It is thorough enough to almost certainly be accepted in every other state in the country as well. As part of your estate plan, it will be included and explained so that you can make an informed decision regarding these sometimes troubling topics.