Everyone has the right to make their own medical decisions, however if due to a temporary or permanent injury or illness they are unable to make decisions, a medical treatment decision maker can be appointed.
This sponsored article was first published in the 17 May 2018 edition of the Baw Baw Citizen.
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As of March 2018, the way in which you appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapable of doing so has changed.
The Medical Enduring Power of Attorney has been replaced with the Medical Treatment Decision Maker Form and the Advanced Care Directive.
The Medical Treatment Decision Maker Form allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions should you be unable to do so. This form should be discussed and prepared with your Lawyer. It is also important to discuss your values and preferences with your appointed person.
The Advanced Care Directive is an optional form that allows you to specifically list your values and preferences of medical treatment for your medical decision maker to follow. This form should be discussed and signed with your medical practitioner.
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Please note the above advice is of a general nature and for further information please contact SJD Law on 0356 227899.
