What is a Healthcare Power of Attorney?
Healthcare power of attorney (POA) documents are used to designate a specific person or persons to make medical choices on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This document, sometimes called a medical power of attorney, helps ensure that health care options are in line with your wishes and in your best interest.
When to Use:
- You want to appoint an Agent to carry out your wishes regarding healthcare.
- Your health may be at risk due to an upcoming surgery or procedure.
- You are aging or have declining health.
- You may wish to appoint someone to make health decisions on your behalf and fulfill your wishes in case of illness.
Other Names for This Document:
- Healthcare proxy
- Healthcare surrogate
- Medical Power of Attorney