If you become unable to speak for yourself, due to illness or accident, you will leave a guide for others and peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

Do you know what healthcare treatments you would and would not want if you could not speak for yourself?  It is important to think about your values and learn about treatment options.

What is a Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR)?

Do Not Resuscitate orders are signed by the patient and the physician when a decision not to be resuscitated in the event of cardiac or respiratory failure and imminent death.  In Florida, the form is printed on yellow paper, otherwise EMTs will not abide by it.  It should be kept on your refrigerator with a magnet and in your wallet or purse.  The form has two copies built into it.  Both will have to be signed.  You can get the form on-line on the Florida department of Health website.

Do you want your Organs or Tissue donated? Organ donation can be added to your driver’s license and be sure to notify your physician(s).

Do other people know what your wishes are?  What are your concerns?  Please share your wishes and your concerns with your physicians, family and friends.

What is the one thing that you want to be sure your doctors, family and friends know about your wishes?

Take this valuable opportunity to reflect on what’s important and share with your loved ones. Discussion and documentation must happen before a crisis.  Open discussion and communication of one’s wishes and concerns prior to a crisis provides comfort to you and to your loved ones

It is up to YOU to initiate the conversation and documents such as a Healthcare Surrogate, Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, Healthcare Agent or Proxy, HIPPA release and/or Living Will.

Diana Mangsen focuses her practice as an elder law attorney in Clearwater, Largo, St. Petersburg, Dunedin, Palm Harbor and the Tampa Bay area.

For more information, visit our website at
https://www.mangsenlaw.com/
or call (727) 888-6282.