This document allows you to name someone to make medical decisions for you if you ever
unable to do so for yourself.
Your son or daughter is away at college and gets the flu, which puts them in the hospital. Depending on the severity, he or she may not be able to understand or communicate with medical providers. By having a Healthcare Directive and Power of Attorney in place, you, or another designee will be able to help coordinate your child’s medical care without unnecessary delay.
You are in surgery to remove your appendix and the surgeon sees a suspicious growth. The doctor would not be able to remove or biopsy the growth unless you have appointed someone authorized to consent to her doing so, possibly resulting in repeated invasive procedures.
Clear guidance as to who should make medical decisions for you may prevent disagreement between well-meaning loved ones in the event of a medical emergency.
Certain states have language that is required by law to be in a Health Care Power of Attorney or restrictions on who may serve as your agent under this document. It’s a good idea to have an attorney licensed in your new home state review your existing legal documents to ensure they will be effective in your new hometown.
You are injured or suffer from dementia or another condition that prevents you from understanding and communicating your wishes. Without a Healthcare Power of Attorney that clearly states your intentions or designates an individual to make critical decisions, the court may become involved and appoint someone other than the person you would have chosen.
Your son or daughter is away at college and gets the flu, which puts them in the hospital. Depending on the severity, he or she may not be able to understand or communicate with medical providers. By having a Healthcare Directive and Power of Attorney in place, you, or another designee will be able to help coordinate your child’s medical care without unnecessary delay.
