Archive for the ‘Medical Planning’ Category

Estate Planning for the Chronically Ill

A recent Wall Street Journal article (4/5/2009) cited some prudent extra steps and some good ideas for individuals with chronic illness when they prepare their estates. Here is a quick summary:
1. Power of Attorney
This document allows others to act on your behalf - paying bills, filing taxes, etc. A ‘durable power of attorney’ [...]

Living Wills and HIPAA Medical Privacy

From 1996 to 2003 Congress was changing the rules on medical privacy.  The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires that hospitals and medical care providers not discuss a patient with anyone other than their spouse.  If your living will has a medical agent or health care power of attorney other than your spouse, [...]