Advance Directives

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES -- (House of Representatives - November 03, 2005)

(Mr. GINGREY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the 27th annual National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. This month health organizations all around the country will be educating individuals on what it means to have an advance directive, or living will. So today I am joining with these organizations to encourage everyone to take a moment and discuss with their loved ones what their wishes would be in a health care situation where they were unable to communicate them.

Madam Speaker, the term ``advance directive'' describes two types of legal documents that can enable you to plan for and communicate your end-of-life issues in the event you are unable to convey them yourself.

First, Madam Speaker, is a living will. It allows you to document your wishes concerning medical treatments at the end of life. The second is a medical power of attorney, or health care proxy, which allows you to appoint a person you trust as your health care agent. This person would be authorized to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Madam Speaker, living wills and medical powers of attorney are valuable tools to help communicate 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 very well be one of the most important conversations that a family can have.

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