We can’t predict the future, but we can take steps to prepare for it. Medical emergencies or serious illnesses can happen without warning, and in those moments, it helps to have a clear plan. Healthcare directives give you a voice when you’re unable to speak and take the pressure off your loved ones during stressful times. In Louisiana, tools like living wills and healthcare powers of attorney make it possible to stay in control of your healthcare decisions, no matter what comes your way.
What Is a Healthcare Directive?
Healthcare directives are legal documents that enable you to express your medical wishes in advance. In Louisiana, they come in two forms:
- A living will, establishes your intentions regarding end of life decisions specific to life support.
- A healthcare power of attorney, which appoints someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you can’t speak for yourself and is used to convey your specific treatment wishes.
Having both documents in place ensures your wishes are known and respected, even when you’re unable to speak for yourself.
Understanding the Louisiana Living Will
In Louisiana, a living will is formally called a Declaration Concerning Life-Sustaining Procedures. It takes effect only if two doctors agree that you have a terminal condition or are in a permanent, irreversible state. At that point, the document guides your care team and your family about how to proceed.
Your living will might state that you:
- Want to avoid life support, such as ventilators or feeding tubes, in certain situations
- Prefer comfort care and pain management over aggressive treatment
- Wish to follow religious or personal values related to end-of-life care
To be legally valid, your declaration must be in writing and signed in the presence of two witnesses. You can update or cancel it at any time by creating a new document or writing a revocation.
A living will removes uncertainty during difficult moments. It gives your family peace of mind and helps your doctors follow your wishes with confidence.
The Role of a Healthcare Power of Attorney
A healthcare power of attorney, also known as a medical mandate, lets you appoint someone to act as your voice if you’re unable to make decisions. This person is legally allowed to speak with doctors, authorize treatments, and make medical choices that reflect your values.
Your healthcare agent can:
- Access your medical records and discuss options with your care team
- Approve or decline treatments based on your known preferences
- Decide where you receive care, including hospitals or long-term care facilities
- Make real-time decisions if something unexpected happens
Unlike a living will, a healthcare power of attorney applies to more than just end-of-life care. It can be used during surgery, after a stroke, or in any situation where you’re temporarily or permanently unable to decide for yourself.
The mandate must be in writing, signed by you in the presence of two qualified witnesses. Having it notarized is not required by law, but doing so can strengthen the document and give it wider acceptance. Once signed, it’s best to store it somewhere accessible.
Why You May Need Both Documents
Living wills and healthcare powers of attorney are not interchangeable—they serve different purposes, and together, they form a strong plan.
A living will gives clear instructions in specific circumstances. A healthcare power of attorney allows your chosen decision-maker to handle everything else. Having both ensures:
- Your choices are documented
- Someone you trust can step in when needed
- Your family avoids court proceedings to be granted authority
Without these documents, doctors may be forced to make decisions without your input, or disagreements between loved ones could lead to conflict.
Who Should You Choose as Your Agent?
Picking the right person to speak for you is an important part of planning. You want someone who will honor your wishes, not their own opinions. This person should be:
- Calm under pressure
- Comfortable speaking with medical professionals
- Willing to carry out difficult decisions if needed
It’s a good idea to name a backup in case your first choice is unavailable. Make sure to talk with your agent about your values and beliefs, so they’re ready to act when the time comes.
Contact an Experienced Healthcare Directive Attorney
Creating healthcare directives is an act of care for yourself and the people you love. At Kallio Law Firm, LLC, we help Louisiana families put these important documents in place. If you’re ready to start planning or if you have questions about an existing directive, contact us today. Taking this step now can bring peace of mind—for you and for those who may one day need to speak on your behalf.
