Should I Have Both an AMD and a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Planning for future healthcare and financial decisions can be complex, and understanding your options is essential. So, should you have both an Advance Medical Directive (AMD) and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in Singapore? Yes, you should. An AMD outlines your healthcare preferences if you become terminally ill and unable to communicate with them, while an LPA appoints someone to make decisions on your behalf regarding your personal welfare, finances and property when you’re terminally ill and unconscious. Having both ensures comprehensive coverage of your healthcare and financial wishes.

Want to know how to integrate these documents effectively? Read on for the ultimate guide on having both an AMD and an LPA in Singapore, providing detailed insights into their benefits and how to ensure your future decisions are respected and well-managed.

How Do an AMD and LPA Differ in Terms of Function and Purpose?

Having legal documents allows you to make informed decisions about your future healthcare in Singapore. Two key documents play a crucial role: Advance Medical Directive (AMD) and Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). While both empower you, they serve distinct purposes. Let's delve into the key differences between an AMD and LPA as outlined by the Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF):

Function:

Advance Medical Directive (AMD): An AMD is a legal document that specifies your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event you become terminally ill and unconscious. It focuses on withholding extraordinary life-sustaining treatment that only serves to prolong the dying process.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): An LPA grants legal authority to a trusted individual(s) called your "donee(s)" to make decisions on your behalf. This can encompass personal welfare decisions (including medical treatment) and/or property and financial matters. The LPA comes into effect when you lose mental capacity to make such decisions yourself.

Purpose:

Advance Medical Directive (AMD): The primary purpose of an AMD is to ensure your healthcare wishes are respected during terminal illness when you cannot communicate them. It fosters open communication with loved ones and healthcare providers about your end-of-life preferences.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): An LPA provides peace of mind by ensuring someone you trust can make informed decisions for you if you lack mental capacity. This can encompass a broader range of situations for patients with terminal illness and unconsciousness.

Both AMD and LPA are valuable tools for having a clear plan in case you become terminally ill, unconscious, and mentally incapacitated. Consider discussing both options with your doctor and loved ones to determine which documents best suit your needs.

How Does Having Both an AMD and LPA Benefit My Family?

Here's how having both an AMD and LPA benefits your loved ones:

Peace of Mind and Clarity:

Reduced Burden: An AMD removes the burden from your family of guessing your wishes regarding medical treatment in a difficult situation. Having your preferences documented allows them to focus on emotional support and honouring your decisions.
Open Communication: An AMD can spark conversations with your family about your values and preferences regarding end-of-life care. This fosters understanding and reduces the potential for disagreements among loved ones.
Empowerment with LPA: An LPA can encompass various aspects beyond medical care, such as managing finances or daily needs.

Enhanced Decision-Making:

Informed Choices: An AMD provides clear guidelines for your doctors, ensuring they understand your wishes for medical treatment during a critical illness. This allows them to tailor care that aligns with your values.
Unified Approach: An LPA grants your Donee the authority to make decisions based on your best interests, ensuring continuity and consistency with your wishes. This avoids potential delays or disputes due to family disagreements.

Emotional and Practical Support:

Reduced Stress: Knowing your wishes are documented can significantly reduce stress and anxiety for your family during a time of emotional strain.
Financial Security: An LPA with provisions for financial management can ensure your bills are paid and assets are handled appropriately. This provides financial stability for your family while you are incapacitated.
Focus on Care: Relieving your family from logistical and decision-making burdens allows them to focus on providing emotional support and care during your illness.

Conclusion

Having both an AMD and LPA demonstrates your love and foresight for your family. These documents empower your loved ones, reduce stress, and ensure your wishes are respected. Consider discussing both AMD and LPA with your doctor and family.

If you're interested in pursuing both an LPA and AMD, it's recommended to consult with a legacy planning expert, like The Life Legacy. We can guide you through the process, ensure the documents are legally sound, and tailor them to your specific needs and circumstances. Our expertise can provide additional peace of mind for you and your family.