Advanced Directives

Advanced Directives allow you to give your doctor and other health care professionals specific directions on care you may or may not want in the event of a medical emergency. Advanced Directives specify who has the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make decisions. It is important to share your personal beliefs about what makes your life worth living and your views on quality of life vs. quantity of life.

You should consult an attorney to assist you in completing these important documents:

• Durable Health Care Power of Attorney
  • A health-care power of attorney goes into effect when you are not able to make your choices about treatment known.
• Power of Attorney for Finances
  • The Financial Power of Attorney goes into effect usually, based on State law, as soon as you sign it. Strongly consider whether you know, and trust, the person you are giving access and control of your finances to.
• Living Will or Advanced Care Directive
  • The Living Will or Advanced Care Directive goes into effect when your doctor determines you are no longer able to make your healthcare decisions.

The Rhode Island Bar Association provides a great deal of additional reliable information on it’s website here.