Why Your Health Plan Matters
February is American Heart Month—a time when we focus on keeping our hearts healthy. But just as we work to prevent heart disease, it’s equally important to prepare for life’s unforeseen emergencies. At Roth Elder Law, our mission is to empower you to protect your health and your future by ensuring that your healthcare wishes are honored, even when you can’t speak for yourself.

When a heart attack, stroke, or another medical emergency occurs, being unable to make your own healthcare decisions can add stress and uncertainty to an already critical situation. That’s why having healthcare directives in place isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a vital step in safeguarding your wishes and easing the burden on your loved ones.

What Are Healthcare Directives?

Healthcare directives are legal documents that clearly outline your choices for medical care if you become unable to communicate. They include:

• Health Care Proxy:
  Designates someone you trust to make informed medical decisions on your behalf.
• Living Will:
  Specify your preferences regarding medical treatments, including decisions about life-sustaining measures during severe illness or injury, including end of life care.
• HIPAA Authorization:
  Grant your trusted decision-makers access to your medical information so they can act quickly when needed.

Why This Matters for You and Your Loved Ones

Imagine facing a medical emergency without your wishes clearly documented. Without healthcare directives:

• Your healthcare preferences might be overlooked.
• Your loved ones could face stressful delays and disagreements.
• Unnecessary court involvement might complicate decision-making during a crisis.

By establishing these directives, you ensure that:

• Your voice is heard, even when you’re unable to speak.
• A trusted person is empowered to make critical decisions on your behalf.
• Your loved one’s are spared added emotional and legal burdens during difficult times.

Take Action This Heart Month

Just as you commit to a heart-healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise, it’s time to commit to protecting your future. Now is the perfect moment to review—or create—your healthcare directives.

At Roth Elder Law, we combine decades of legal expertise with a genuine commitment to your family’s well-being. We’ll guide you through the process of establishing a comprehensive plan that honors your wishes and protects your loved ones from unforeseen challenges.

Call us today at 607-962-6162 or fill out our intake form to schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to ensure that your healthcare decisions are secure, clear, and reflective of what matters most to you.