In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff is joined by Eleanor Davis to explore the vital topic of estate planning, particularly in the context of those affected by blood cancer.

Eleanor Davis, a Senior Associate and Practice Manager with David Davis & Associates, shares her professional insights on the importance of appointing Financial and Personal Attorneys as well as a Medical Treatment Decision Maker. Appointing people you trust to the role of a Financial and Personal Attorney as well as Medical Treatment Decision Maker Attorney ensures that a patient's financial, personal, and medical wishes are respected, even if they lose capacity, and that their decisions are not overridden by family members. Eleanor explains that seeking professional help for estate planning is essential, especially if there is no trusted family member or friend available to take on this responsibility.

Highlighting the necessity of timely estate planning, including making a will, appointing powers of attorney, and setting up advance health directives. Eleanor discusses the different types of property ownership and their implications for estate planning, stressing the importance of understanding the rules around jointly owned properties and bank accounts. They also delve into the critical aspect of appointing trustworthy executors and the legal implications of intestacy laws in Australia.

Kate and Eleanor underscore that while these discussions can be uncomfortable, they are crucial for ensuring a smoother process and providing a sense of control in the face of uncertainty. Emphasising the moral obligations to dependents and partners, the need for backup executors, and the benefits of joint will-making for couples with differing family dynamics. The episode provides practical guidance on capacity considerations and the importance of early planning to avoid complications later on.

The Leukaemia Foundation strongly recommend that everyone seek their own legal advice when considering their options. We also would like to highlight that advance care directives are available in every state and territory, and if you wish to seek more information, please connect with Advance Care Planning Australia

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.