Death with Dignity – How You Can Incorporate a “Graceful Departure” in Your Estate Plan

The D.C. Council is debating legislation that would allow doctors to prescribe lethal doses of prescription medication to terminally ill patients. The “Death with Dignity Act,” introduced by Council member Mary Cheh made it out of a five-member committee by a 3-2 vote. Council member Cheh introduced the bill to give “dying patients greater choice and control over their final moments,” according to the Washington Times. “In the face of imminent death, meeting a patient’s individual needs and wishes compassionately should be our top priority. If a dying person wishes to peacefully end his or her life rather than endure prolonged pain and suffering, we should not stand in their way,” said Council member Cheh. Here is an ABC News report discussing the proposed legislation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjPkYRxyjjg No matter where you stand on the issue of assisting a patient with ending their life, it is important to know that there are many ways to prepare if you...

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The Benefits of a Docubank Card

Modern medicine requires the use of medical directives, but having instant and easy access to them is equally important. As clients of the InSight Law Maintenance Plan, Docubank provides a wonderful service to you at no additional charge. Docubank provides immediate access to your healthcare directives and emergency medical information anywhere at anytime. This can be useful in an emergency situation, or even if you are going in for a scheduled procedure. You should have received a Docubank card shortly after we delivered your estate planning documents to you. We suggest you place this card next to your insurance card in your wallet so hospitals and helpers have easy access to this information. This card gives your provider the information they need to contact Docubank and get a copy of your Medical Directives and healthcare checklists and instructions you have completed. It is important you let your provider know about this...

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National Healthcare Decisions Day Provides Reminder of Key Planning Documents You Need

We have all heard horror stories about family members disagreeing over end-of-life care decisions. This can result in families ending up in protracted court battles while patients are kept alive on life support. All the while, no one really knew what the patient actually wanted. Do not let this happen to you. Provide your loved ones with some relief by planning ahead for your healthcare decisions. On April 16, 2016, organizations throughout the country tried to inspire, educate and empower the public about the importance of advance care planning. National Healthcare Decisions Day encourages people to express their wishes regarding healthcare. Ask yourself - do your loved ones know your wishes? Here is a great video on this important issue: Modern medicine can do some amazing things, but often requires complex and difficult decisions. Life support can keep people alive for months and even years, but people have various opinions about end of...

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Holiday Season Good Time to Discuss Estate Planning with Loved Ones

Your parents are getting older and you may be wondering if they have a plan in place just in case something awful suddenly occurs. However, it is difficult to have that conversation since it is an uncomfortable subject to talk about and you may not be in close proximity to your loved ones. The holiday season provides the perfect opportunity to have that conversation with your loved ones since everyone is together and can participate. It may not be the most “holly jolly” subject, but it needs to be done. Being proactive and getting your family on the same page will save all of you stress and chaos in the future. A lot of hurt feelings can be avoided if people know and understand what the plan is ahead of time. Below are some important tips that can help you and your loved ones make the conversation as productive and effective for all...

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