Is it import to have an advanced directive and a health care proxy?
This is not legal advice and what I have learned about advanced care directives in Maine! An advanced care directive (sometimes referred to as a living will) is incredibly important. Without that and your appointed medical power of attorney (also referred to as durable power of attorney or personal representative) your wishes will not be known and more than likely will not be honored. Most people think their medical power of attorney has to be a relative – that is not the case. It is important to choose someone who you know will honor your wishes by talking to them first about what your wishes are and to be assured they understand and concur. Then provide them with a copy as well as your physician and local hospital. The medical power of attorney does not have decision making power after the death occurs unless they are also named as your estate representative in your last will and testament. These are separate people in many cases. Refer to your attorney and physician for professional
