The Role of Healthcare Surrogates in Estate Planning

Healthcare surrogates play a crucial role in estate planning, ensuring that your medical wishes are followed when you are unable to make decisions yourself. Understanding their importance and responsibilities is essential for comprehensive planning.

What is a Healthcare Surrogate?

A healthcare surrogate is an individual you designate to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This person will ensure your healthcare preferences are honored.

Key Responsibilities:

• Medical Decisions: Your surrogate will make decisions about your medical care, including treatments and procedures if you are unable to make those decisions for yourself.
• HIPAA Authorization: They will have the authority to access your medical records and communicate with healthcare providers under HIPAA regulations.
• Advocacy: Your surrogate will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive appropriate and preferred medical care.

Benefits:

• Ensures Wishes are Followed: A healthcare surrogate ensures that your healthcare choices are respected, even when you cannot voice them yourself.
• Reduces Burden on Family: Having a designated surrogate reduces the emotional and decision-making burden on your family during difficult times.
• Provides Peace of Mind: Knowing that a trusted person is handling your medical decisions can provide significant peace of mind.

Choosing a Healthcare Surrogate:

• Trustworthiness: Select someone you trust to make decisions in your best interest.
• Communication Skills: Choose someone who can effectively communicate with medical professionals and family members.
• Availability: Ensure your surrogate is readily available (and ideally lives nearby) so that they can make timely decisions.

Conclusion:

Designating a healthcare surrogate is a vital part of estate planning. It ensures your medical preferences are respected and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Contact our Ocala estate planning attorneys at Klein & Klein, LLC for a consultation today to discuss how we can help you designate a healthcare surrogate.