What is a medical power of attorney?

When you’re creating an estate plan, you have to make decisions that go beyond who will receive what assets as their inheritance. Some of these have to do with making sure you’ll be taken care of if you aren’t able to make decisions on your own. 

If you become incapacitated, someone will have to make decisions for you. Setting this up when you’re getting your estate planning documents together ensures that you can have a say in those decisions. 

Advance directives

One of the first things you need to do is write out an advance directive. This is a written statement that outlines what type of medical care you’re willing to accept and what you don’t want. Some decisions, such as the choice not to be resuscitated, may require you to fill out specific forms. Your medical care team will follow your advance directive if they receive it. 

Power of attorney

Another document to get set up is the power of attorney for healthcare. This document gives someone you name the power to make medical decisions on your behalf. They’ll work closely with your medical care team to get you the care you need, and that’s within the scope of your wishes. 

Getting your entire estate plan together can help to give you peace of mind because you’ll know that your wishes are clearly relayed. Working with someone who can help you get the various elements set up may make it a bit easier to get it done.