By: Robert Remler
If that were to happen, your health care decisions would be in the hands of doctors, family members and friends, unless there is a health care proxy to follow."Under such circumstances, a health care proxy or advance directive would ensure that your choices for care would be honored immediately, without losing valuable time, and loved ones would not be left to make difficult decisions," said Daniel Ferrara, MD, director of Emergency Services at South Nassau Communities Hospital.In 1991, the state enacted the New York health care proxy law, giving individuals the right to prepare advance health care directives on how they are to be treated if they are unable to make health care decisions. The law enables individuals to appoint a "health care agent," who must be 18 years of age or older, to ensure that the hospital and doctors follow the directives.Creating a health care proxy is not permanent and can be cancelled or changed at any time. It can include an expiration date or be valid indefinitely. If a spouse is named the agent and then a divorce or legal separation follows, the proxy is automatically invalidated. To activate the proxy, it must be signed by two witnesses at least 18 years of age, as well as the patient, who, if not capable of signing because of a deficiency, may direct someone else to sign it in his or her name. The agent, however, cannot sign as a witness.A proxy becomes effective as soon as doctors determine the patient is not able to make health care decisions. From that point forward, the agent, the doctors and the hospital are legally required to follow the proxy, and all decision-making is turned over to the agent. If the hospital objects to certain requested treatment, the hospital's personnel are required by law to tell the agent. While the agent is responsible for enforcing the proxy and making decisions based on it, he/she is not legally liable for treatment decisions made in good faith on behalf of the patient or for the costs of care. It's important to keep the proxy in an accessible place and give copies of it to the agent, an alternate agent, family physician and all other appropriate family members and friends. You should have a copy of the proxy available at all times. "Put a copy of it in your wallet or purse; that way it can be located and followed almost immediately," adds Ferrara.A copy of the New York State Department of Health, Health Care Proxy form can be obtained by calling 1-877-South-Nassau or visiting www.southnassau.org and clicking "Info for Consumers."
Adult asthma program
Asthma sufferers can learn to take control of their asthma through "Asthma 101," an adult asthma education course offered by Winthrop-University Hospital's Asthma Center. The program is perfect for a person who has been newly diagnosed or whose asthma is out of control. The course is taught by registered nurses and respiratory therapists with years of clinical experience in asthma management. It will be held Wednesday, Feb. 13, 20 and 27, 5 to 6:30 p.m., at 222 Station Plaza North in Mineola, Suite 400. The course fee is $25.Participants will receive individualized instruction in a small group setting, an asthma workbook, a peak flow meter and instruction on how to use inhaled medication. There will also be an opportunity to meet and share feelings with other asthmatics. Parents of asthmatic children are welcome.To register for the program or to receive more details, call (516) 663-2579.
New treatment group for panic disorder
Does driving, shopping at the mall, walking in open spaces, or entering a crowded room make your heart pound or make you feel nauseous, dizzy or lightheaded? If so, you may be suffering from panic attacks.The Anxiety Treatment Program of the Department of Psychiatry at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset is beginning a Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment Group for panic disorder. According to Juliana Lachenmeyer, PhD, director of the Anxiety Treatment Program, The group format will include relaxation exercises and problem-skill training. Participants will have an opportunity to learn from and to support each other.Sessions will meet on Fridays, starting Feb.1, 8 p.m. Fees are often partially reimbursed by insurance carriers.If you are interested in joining the group or would like to obtain more information, call Laura Bastiani at (516) 562-1440, mailbox #3338 or Chris Kladopoulos at (516) 562-3340. Space is limited, so call immediately to reserve your spot.
Bereavement volunteers needed
Have you attended a bereavement group or have you gone through a bereavement period and are able now to get on with your life? Would you able to share with others your experience and give them help and support?Good Shepherd Hospice, formerly Mercy Hospice, is seeking volunteers to call family members who have lost a loved one recently. Your life experience would be invaluable to someone. Training/support meetings will be scheduled for bereavement volunteers.For further information or to register, call Sister Jane Brustman at (516) 485-3060, by Monday, Feb. 11.
Monthly support group
The St. Charles Hospital Rehabilitation Center conducts a monthly support group for men and women who are physically disabled. They meet at E.F.L.I., 506 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, 1 to 2:30 p.m., on the second Thurs. of every month. For additional information, call Barbara Toney at (516) 889-8475.
