The start of a new year often inspires us to take better care of ourselves—we set goals to eat healthier, exercise more, or finally learn a new skill. But while we focus on our physical health, it is just as important to focus on the essential legal documents that protect our medical wishes.
If you are a New York resident who already has healthcare directives in place, a compassionate and practical New Year's resolution is this: Review your documents.
What Are Healthcare Directives?
Healthcare directives are legal documents that allow you to express your wishes for future medical care and appoint someone to make decisions for you if you cannot speak for yourself. In New York, these typically include:
Health Care Proxy: This document names the person (your agent) you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
Living Will: This states your wishes regarding specific life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial hydration, nutrition, or mechanical ventilation, especially in end-of-life situations.
Why Reviewing Them Annually Matters
It is easy to put these documents in a safe place and forget about them. However, life changes—sometimes dramatically—and your documents need to reflect your current reality. Here are a few key reasons why an annual review is essential:
1. Life Changes Affect Your Agent
Has the person you named as your Health Care Proxy moved out of state, or are they no longer someone you speak with regularly? Major life events—such as a death, divorce, or relocation—can impact whether your chosen agent is still the best person, or even available, to fulfill this crucial role. An agent needs to be close by and able to communicate effectively with your New York doctors.
2. Your Wishes May Have Evolved
Your perspective on medical care may change over time, especially after gaining new life experiences or receiving new diagnoses. What you decided about certain life-sustaining treatments years ago might feel different today. The new year is the perfect time to ensure your Living Will still accurately expresses your values and desires for your medical journey.
3. The Law Can Change
While healthcare law generally remains stable, minor changes or updates in New York state regulations could affect how your documents are interpreted or executed. Consulting with an attorney ensures your documents are still compliant and legally sound.
A Resolution for Peace of Mind
Taking the time to review your healthcare directives is not a complicated task, but it provides immense peace of mind for you and your loved ones. It ensures that your voice will be heard, even if you are unable to speak, and that your family will not be left to guess your wishes during an already difficult time. This resolution is a profound act of care and compassion toward your future self and your family.
Let's Start the New Year Securely
Make a resolution that truly matters this year. If you are a New York resident and are ready to review your Health Care Proxy, update your Living Will, or need to create healthcare directives for the first time, the team at Martin Law PC is here to offer professional guidance.
Call us today at (845) 764-8104 to schedule a confidential review and ensure your critical medical wishes are accurately protected for the year ahead.