Healthcare Considerations

We recommend that during the estate planning process, you consider granting power of attorney for health care decisions to a trusted individual. This will enable that individual to make health care decisions for you, should you become unable to do so on your own.

Generally, married couples will name their spouses for this duty and an alternate in case the spouse is unable. In addition to the power of attorney for health care, many people wish to establish a physician's directive, which sets forth directions for providing critical health care.

Advance directives are for physicians, caregivers, and family, so that everyone can understand what kind of care you want if you become unable to communicate or make medical decisions. Laws are different in each state, and we encourage you to seek professional counsel who can advise you of the laws in your state.

Christian Medical & Dental Associations (CMDA) has published a guide to understanding the advance directive. With permission from CMDA, we have posted links below.

The CMDA Advance Directive Kit will assist you in identifying and discussing topics like:

• What is an advance directive?
• How do most Christians view having an advance directive?
• Do I have a right to refuse treatment?

These questions and more are answered in the two-part CMDA Advance Directive Kit. This will help you and your family discuss your wishes, in the event that you become unable to communicate or make medical decisions.

Download a free electronic version (click here)

We recommend that during the estate planning process, you consider granting durable power of attorney for property management to a trusted individual. This will enable that individual to manage the assets in your estate, should you become incapacitated before death. Generally, married couples will name their spouses for this duty and an alternate in case the spouse is unable.