HMO Guide for Seniors - Office of the Patient Advocate - State of ...

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Questions & Answers
I filled out an Advance Health
Care Directive. What do I
need to do now?
Sign and date your directive
and have two other people sign
it. Or have a notary public
witness your signature. Keep
the original, signed document.
Give copies to your doctor
and to your health care agent.
It’s scary to think of letting
someone make decisions about
my health. How do I choose
a health care agent?
Choose someone you know
well and trust, like a spouse,
partner, close relative, or friend.
The person should know your
values and beliefs and be able
to act on them. Choose a
back-up person also.
things you can do
Make Sure Others Know Your Wishes
Give a copy of your Advance Health Care Directive
to your doctor and your health care agent.
Discuss your wishes with them. The law says
that they must follow your wishes.
Talk to your family and close friends about your
wishes. Tell them where your Advance Health
Care Directive is.
If You Are in a Hospital or a Nursing Home
Make sure your doctor and the hospital or nursing
home have a copy of your Advance Health Care
Directive. Make sure they understand what care
you want.
where to find help
California Coalition for Compassionate Care
Advance Health Care Directive forms
www.finalchoices.org
California Hospital Association
Advance Health Care Directive forms
1-800-494-2001
www.calhospital.org/publications
Does my health care agent
have control over my money?
No. If you want someone to
pay your bills and manage
your money, talk to your
bank or lawyer.