The Importance of a Living Will for Foreign Residents in Portugal
Healthcare is one of the most valuable assets we possess, and making decisions about the medical care we want in critical situations is a responsibility that shouldn’t be postponed. For foreign residents living in Portugal, one crucial step is completing a Living Will, an essential document that ensures your medical wishes are respected, particularly when you are unable to express them yourself.
What is a Living Will?
A Living Will, officially known in Portugal as the Directiva Antecipada de Vontade (DAV), allows any adult to declare in writing what medical care they do or do not wish to receive in the case of a severe or terminal illness. This document is key in situations where the patient is unconscious or unable to communicate, ensuring that their values and decisions are upheld.
Why is it Important for Foreign Residents?
For foreign residents, completing a Living Will in Portugal is particularly important because the country’s laws concerning palliative care and end-of-life decisions are quite restrictive. Without a properly filled and registered document, medical decisions might be made that go against the patient’s personal wishes.
Foreigners may also be unfamiliar with the specifics of Portuguese law or medical practices, making the Living Will a clear way to ensure that their preferences are respected, despite any language or cultural barriers.
The Importance of Registering the Will in Private Hospitals
In addition to filling out the Living Will, it is crucial that it be registered with private hospitals in the patient’s area of residence. This way, in case of an emergency, healthcare professionals will have immediate access to the directives, making it easier to follow the patient’s wishes. In Portugal, private hospitals play a significant role in delivering high-quality healthcare, and being prepared for any eventuality is a wise decision.
C1 Broker provides the DAV document in several languages
At C1 Broker, we understand that completing the Living Will can be a complex process, especially for those who do not speak Portuguese. That’s why we provide versions of the Living Will in several languages to help foreign residents better understand its contents. It is important to note that these translations are not official documents but serve as a practical guide to assist with accurately filling out the legally recognised Portuguese form.
A Delicate but Essential Topic
While the subject of a Living Will can be uncomfortable for many, it’s crucial to approach it with maturity and clarity. We cannot predict the future, but we can ensure that, if needed, our wishes will be respected. Completing a Living Will offers peace of mind, both for the patient and their loved ones, by avoiding difficult decisions during already emotionally challenging times.
At C1 Broker, we are here to answer any questions about the Living Will and to assist with the process so our clients can live with the confidence that their wishes will always be respected, even in the most difficult moments.
