Tag Archive: Medical Decisions

New Hospital Visitation Regulations for LGBT Families

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…

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Tool # 3 in the Life Planning Toolbox – the Living Will

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…

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Medical Care Decisions for Gay and Lesbian Partners

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…

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