Why Everyone Needs a Health Care Directive and Medical Power of Attorney
- Jennifer Georgianne
- Jul 6
- 3 min read
Why Everyone Needs a Health Care Directive and Medical Power of Attorney
When it comes to estate planning, most people think about wills, trusts, and passing on their assets. But one of the most critical—and often overlooked—parts of your estate plan is how decisions will be made if you can’t make them yourself. That’s where a Health Care Directive and Medical Power of Attorney come in.
At East County Estate Planning, PC, we help clients in Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, Sammamish, and throughout King County, Washington, as well as La Mesa, Santee, El Cajon, and San Diego County, California, create comprehensive estate plans that include the tools needed for medical emergencies and long-term care.
What Is a Health Care Directive?
Also known as a living will, a Health Care Directive allows you to clearly state your preferences for medical care if you’re ever terminally ill, unconscious, or unable to communicate. You can express your wishes about life-sustaining treatment, artificial nutrition or hydration, pain management, and end-of-life care.
In both Washington and California, this document gives your health care team and loved ones clarity and confidence about what you would want—even when you can’t speak for yourself.
What Is a Medical Power of Attorney?
A Medical Power of Attorney (also called a Health Care Proxy) is a document where you appoint someone you trust—called an agent—to make medical decisions on your behalf. This person can talk to doctors, access your medical records, and advocate for your care based on your preferences.
In a crisis, having a trusted decision-maker already chosen avoids delays, conflict, and confusion among family members.
Why Both Are Essential
While a Health Care Directive lays out your wishes, the Medical Power of Attorney gives someone the legal authority to carry them out. Together, these two documents ensure you stay in control of your medical care—even if you can’t speak for yourself.
Without these documents:
Doctors may be forced to make decisions without knowing your wishes.
Family members may disagree, leading to emotional and legal battles.
You risk receiving unwanted or aggressive medical interventions.
Local Laws Matter
Each state has its own requirements and legal language for health care planning. Whether you live in King County, Washington—including cities like Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, and Sammamish—or in San Diego County, California, including La Mesa, Santee, and El Cajon, we make sure your documents are properly drafted, legally valid, and honored by health care providers.
Peace of Mind for You and Your Family
Medical emergencies are unpredictable. Having a plan in place not only protects your wishes but also relieves your loved ones from having to guess or make impossible choices during a crisis.
At East County Estate Planning, PC, we believe every adult should have a Health Care Directive and Medical Power of Attorney, regardless of age or health status. These simple documents can make a profound difference when it matters most.
Ready to Plan Ahead?
Whether you’re in Washington or California, we can help. Our estate planning services are available in:
Washington: Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, Sammamish, and all of King County California: La Mesa, Santee, El Cajon, and San Diego County
Contact East County Estate Planning, PC today to create your personalized health care documents and gain peace of mind for the future.
Office Locations
📞 Call us today at (619) 566-8084 or visit www.ecestateplanning.com to schedule your free consultation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog or contacting our firm through this website does not create an attorney–client relationship. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this blog without seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice specific to your situation.
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