How do I manage medical decisions for my son if he is in another state?
From our “Ask a Question” Mailbag: Medical Living Will and Out of State Care
Most Recently Updated July 31, 2018.
“My son does not get along with his stepfather and wants to move to another state to live with relatives. He won’t turn 18 for another year. How do I manage medical decisions for him if he is in another state?”
Medical Living Will and Out of State Care
Medical Living Will and Out of State Care – Non-Emergencies
For non-emergency medical care, there is likely no problem as you can communicate with his local doctor and give authorization for examinations or minor care. Work with his doctor and give their office the authorization that they request.
Medical Living Will and Out of State Care – Emergencies
Your problem really stems from any need for emergency medical care. You can give authorization to another person to have emergency medical powers if you (and the other parent, if he is in the picture) are unavailable.
These documents are a typical part of every estate plan when a minor is involved. Your will can appoint a guardian for your child if you are dead. However, if you are incapacitated (from an injury like those sustained in a car accident), you need someone to step in to care for your child until you recover.
More Planning Questions?
The medical living will and out of state care is only a piece of the Estate Planning process. By all means, if you want to learn more, please read my more detailed article, Estate Planning Everything You Need to Know.
In Conclusion: Medical Living Will and Out of State Care
I hope that this article was helpful in explaining Medical Living Will and Out of State Care. Further, I included links to even more detailed information on my website so you can learn more. Therefore, please contact me and let me know how I did. Certainly, your comments and questions are welcome!
Let our Estate Planning lawyers help walk you through what can be a confusing process. To begin with, call to speak to one of our experienced estate planning lawyers. By all means, our lawyers are ready to answer your questions. In fact, feel free to contact our office for a free consultation. Ultimately our goal is to make the process as painless as possible!
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Tags: Estate Planning, Estate Planning Attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Guardianships, Living Will, Medical Power of Attorney, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
