As you age, there’s a chance that you may not be able to make health care decisions on your own. The same holds true if you suffer a serious injury or are struck down by an illness.
And for this reason, it’s imperative that you plan for the worst, while always hoping for the best. A health care power of attorney allows you to do just that.
With a medical power of attorney, you give another person the legal power to make medical decisions on your behalf. For example, if you’re unconscious as the result of a motor vehicle accident, this person can work with your medical team to decide on a treatment plan.
Here are some of the many questions to answer when creating a health care power of attorney:
- Who will you name as your agent? This is the person who has the power to act on your behalf, so choose them wisely.
- What type of authority do you want to give your agent? For instance, you can give them complete authority, meaning they’re responsible for all decisions related to your health. You can also limit them to make only specific decisions. The choice is yours.
- Do you know when a health care power of attorney ends? This is typically the result of revocation or death. For instance, if you no longer want to have a health care power of attorney, you can take the steps required to legally terminate it.
As you answer these questions, among others, you’ll find it easier to confidently create a health care power of attorney that protects you and your interests should the time come in the future.
