In the fast-paced world of healthcare, where circumstances can change in an instant, having a well-thought-out advance care plan (ACP) is more critical than ever. It’s not just about putting your healthcare wishes on paper; it’s about ensuring that your decisions are legally binding and can be honored when the time comes. In this blog, we’ll explore why it’s crucial to sign your advance care plan and provide you with guidance on the different methods of making it legally binding.
Why Signing Your Advance Care Plan Matters
1. Ensure Your Wishes Are Honored: By signing your ACP, you are making your healthcare preferences crystal clear. This document serves as your voice when you can’t speak for yourself. It ensures that your chosen medical treatments, end-of-life care, and other critical decisions are respected.
2. Avoid Family Conflicts: Without a signed advance care plan, your loved ones may face difficult decisions about your care, potentially leading to disagreements and emotional distress. Your ACP eliminates uncertainty, guiding your family during challenging times.
3. Reduce Stress: Signing your ACP can provide peace of mind. Knowing that your preferences are legally binding can alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with medical decision-making.
Legal Implications of an Unsigned ACP
The consequences of not having your ACP signed can be significant, both legally and personally:
1. Limited Decision-Making Power: Without a signed ACP, the power to make medical decisions on your behalf may fall into the hands of someone you wouldn’t have chosen. State laws typically dictate the order of decision-makers, which may not align with your preferences.
2. Unwanted Medical Interventions: Your healthcare providers may administer treatments or interventions that you wouldn’t have wanted. This could result in a medical path that doesn’t align with your values and beliefs.
3. Family Disputes: The absence of a signed ACP can lead to disputes among family members, as they grapple with making decisions on your behalf. These conflicts can strain relationships during an already emotionally charged time.
Understanding Signing Your ACP
To make your advance care plan legally binding, you can explore e-signing options, including remote witness signing and e-notary services:
DISCLAIMER: The options below may or may not be applicable to YOUR STATE. Make sure you check within the Koda platform to see options for your state.
1. E-Signatures: E-signing involves electronically signing your document. Many states accept e-signatures for advance care plans, but requirements may vary. Ensure you follow your state’s specific guidelines.
HOW: Koda users (whose states allow) have the ability to e-sign their plan through the platform. Watch the video below to learn how.
2. Remote Witness Signing: This method allows you to sign your ACP document remotely while being observed by witnesses through a video call. Witnesses must confirm your identity and that you are voluntarily signing the document.
HOW: Koda Users can book an appointment with one of our Care Navigators to schedule a 30 minute signing session. Please check your Koda account’s “Make Plan Official” page to make sure this option is available.
3. E-Notary: In some states, e-notaries can electronically notarize your ACP, adding an extra layer of legality and security to your document. E-notaries are authorized to perform notarial acts in electronic form.
HOW: Koda Users can book an appointment with one of our Care Navigators to schedule a 30 minute e-notary session. Please check your Koda account’s “Make Plan Official” page to see if this option is available.
Taking Action
Now that you understand the importance of signing your advance care plan and the different methods available, it’s time to take action:
1. Review Your ACP: If you’ve already created your advance care plan, review it to ensure it accurately reflects your current preferences and wishes.
2. Choose Your Signing Method: Decide whether you want to use e-signatures, remote witness signing, or e-notary services. Research your state’s requirements for each method.
3. Seek Assistance: If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to consult with a legal professional or a healthcare advocate. They can guide you through the process and ensure your ACP meets all legal standards.
4. Share Your ACP: Once signed, share copies of your legally binding ACP with your healthcare providers, loved ones, and anyone else involved in your care.
In conclusion, signing your advance care plan is a vital step in ensuring that your healthcare wishes are honored. It provides clarity to your loved ones and reduces the burden of decision-making during difficult times. Don’t wait. Sign your ACP today to secure your future and have peace of mind knowing that your choices will be respected when you need it most.
Have questions about signing?
Reach out to our care team and they can help. Call 1-888-840-5632 or email care@kodahealthcare.com.