New federal regulations require all hospitals participating in Medicare and Medicaid to allow patients to designate visitors of their choosing. Effective January 18, 2011, these hospitals – virtually very hospital in the United States - may not restrict, limit or otherwise deny visitation privileges on the basis of, among other factors, sexual orientation and…
This story from NPR about David Wilson and Ron Loso is yet one more example of why same-sex couples need to protect themselves.
Today’s five-year anniversary of Terri Schiavo’s death is a reminder that we all have to face end-of-life decisions, for ourselves and often for loved ones. Most of us don’t like talking about end-of-life issues. Even more of us never get around to putting a plan in writing. Then-26-year-old Terri Schiavo didn’t either. Terri was diagnosed…
What are your wishes if you are in a persistent vegetative state or have a terminal condition, and death is imminent? Do you feel strongly about resuscitation, insertion tubes or other life-sustaining procedures? How do you best ensure that your wishes are honored? A Living Will is not a last will and testament. It is…
You are in a serious accident or are sick enough to be hospitalized – you can’t make medical decisions for yourself. Who will make decisions when the doctors ask? Without the proper legal document, the first relative who arrives at the hospital may be called upon to make critical and personal medical decisions. In one…
As an LGBT person or a person living with HIV, do you have a Life Plan Toolbox? Would you get into a boat going out on Lake Michigan without a life preserver? Would you let your loved one do so? If your answer is no, then why would you allow you and your loved ones…
Being able to step in and make medical decisions for a seriously ill spouse is unquestioned. Being able to do so for a seriously ill gay partner is not. Unlike married couples, same-sex couples have no legal rights or protection without clear legal documents that spell them out. To be certain that medical decisions stay…