Medical Power Of Attorney: Who’s Calling The Shots?

What is a Medical Power of Attorney?

A Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA) is a legal document that appoints someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. This could happen due to illness, injury, or other circumstances.

Why Do You Need One?

Having an MPOA in place can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. It ensures that your medical wishes are carried out, even if you’re unable to communicate them directly.

Key Elements of a Medical Power of Attorney

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A typical MPOA includes the following elements:

1. Appointment of Agent

This section names the person you’re appointing as your agent to make medical decisions.

2. Scope of Authority

This outlines the types of medical decisions your agent can make, such as:

Authorizing medical treatments

Providing informed consent for procedures

Making decisions about life support

3. Duration of Authority

This specifies how long your agent’s authority will last. It can be for a specific period or until you revoke it.

4. Emergency Provisions

This section may address what happens if your appointed agent is unavailable or unable to act.

How to Create a Medical Power of Attorney

You can create an MPOA by:

Using a template: Many online resources and legal forms providers offer MPOA templates that you can fill out and sign.

Consulting an attorney: An attorney can help you create a customized MPOA that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

Conclusion

A Medical Power of Attorney is a valuable tool for planning your healthcare. By appointing a trusted agent to make medical decisions on your behalf, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, even in challenging circumstances.

FAQs

1. Can I change my MPOA after I’ve signed it? Yes, you can revoke or modify your MPOA at any time.
2. Do I need a witness or notary to sign my MPOA? The requirements for witnessing and notarization vary by state. It’s best to consult local laws or an attorney for specific guidance.
3. Can my agent make decisions about my finances? No, an MPOA only covers medical decisions. To appoint someone to manage your finances, you would need to create a Durable Power of Attorney.
4. What if my agent disagrees with my family members about my medical care? If there’s a disagreement, your agent’s decision generally takes precedence, as they have been appointed to make those decisions.
5. Can I appoint more than one agent to make medical decisions? Yes, you can appoint multiple agents and specify how they should make decisions together.

Medical Power Of Attorney Template