We all like to make our own decisions, especially when it comes to our healthcare. However, should there ever come a time when we cannot speak for ourselves, we would like to some method of informing others of our wishes. North Carolina provides its residents with an outstanding method of speaking for ourselves when it comes to our healthcare and what should be done regarding our future. Making decisions about medical care for loved ones can be very stressful, especially when many family members are involved. An advance healthcare directive can help to avoid squabbles among family members entirely.

There are several forms of advance health care directives on file with the North Carolina Secretary of State’s office that can be found at: https://www.secretary.state.nc.us/ahcdr/Forms.aspx

DNR Order

(Do not Resuscitate)

A Do Not Resuscitate order is a document that directs your medical care provider to refrain from attempting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on you in the event that your heart stops. CPR includes electric shocks to restart the heart, mouth to mouth breathing or pressing on the chest as well as medicines that may restart the heart. This order is especially relevant for people who are near the end of their lives and wish to include this as part of their hospice care plan.
For more information on DNR Orders go to http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000473.htm

MOST Order

(Medical Order for Scope of Treatment)

A MOST Order is a medical order that provides direction for medical care when a patient cannot speak for himself or herself. These are mainly used by those with advanced chronic illnesses or by those with a life expectancy of one year or less. This form is basically a more advanced form of a DNR Order that covers a broader scope of treatment options.
For more information about MOST Orders please visit:http://www.ncmedsoc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/FinalMOSTFAQs1.pdf

Health Care Power of Attorney

A Health Care Power of Attorney form is a document that allows someone that you designate the power to make medical decisions on your behalf should you become incapable of making your own decisions. This form is useful for almost everyone—because in the event of a medical emergency, it prevents confusion and gives you the authority to decide who is best suited to represent you in the event that you cannot speak for yourself.
For more information on health care power of attorney please visit:http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/uncategorized/2011/2011_aging_hcdec_univhcpaform.authcheckdam.pdf

Baccuhus Carver
holler@lawyercarver.com | 910-339-1100

Carver Law Firm, PLLC

PO Box 800,
Spring Lake, NC 28390

Fax: 910-339-1102

DISCLAIMER:

This Blog/Website is made available by the lawyer or law firm publisher for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site, you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and the Blog / Website publisher. The Blog / Website should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney, in your state, who has become familiar with the particulars of your individual circumstances.