SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF PLAN AHEAD WITH AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE WEEK -- (House of Representatives - December 07, 2006)
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Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 934, supporting the goals and ideals of Plan Ahead with an Advance Directive Week. The resolution encourages all Americans to take time to discuss with their loved ones what their wishes would be in a health care situation where that person is unable to communicate.
As many of my colleagues are aware, an advance directive may comprise two types of legal documents that enable individuals to plan for and communicate end-of-life wishes in the event an individual is unable to convey them due to failing health.
The first type of advance directive is what is known as a living will. It documents a person's wishes concerning medical treatments at the end of life. The second type of advance directive is a medical power of attorney or a health care proxy which allows individuals to appoint a person they trust as their health care agent. This person is authorized to make medical decisions on another's behalf.
Mr. Speaker, living wills and medical powers of attorney are valuable tools to help communicate the wishes about future medical care. Thoughtfully prepared advance directives can ease the burden on those who must make health care decisions for us.
In conclusion, I want to encourage all Americans to set aside time to have what may well be one of the most important conversations that a family can have.
At this time, I would like to thank Dr. GINGREY for helping bring this important issue to the American people, and I urge my colleagues to support the resolution.
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