How to choose a health care power of attorney

health care power of attorney

A health care power of attorney or health care surrogate is someone you name to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to due to mental or physical incapacity. Depending on your state, the document you create is a health care power of attorney, medical power of attorney, or health care surrogate. You designate a surrogate or agent who will follow your health care wishes. If necessary, they will also follow your living will or advance medical directives.

You want to choose someone close to you that you trust. However, you should think carefully about who is best suited for the task of making tough decisions.

5 questions to ask your power of attorney

Are they strong and forceful enough to deal with doctors and perhaps meddling family members?

You don’t want your designee to be intimidated by medical personnel or family members who think they know better than what you want. They should be able to stand up to doctors and family members.

Do they have common sense?

Meaning can they rule from their head and not their heart. Will they avoid unnecessary or risky surgical procedures? Although you want your Health Care Surrogate to do everything to keep you alive and in good health, having them approve a triple-bypass may not be in your best interest when you are 97 years old and in failing health.

Can they understand medical issues involving your care?

Do they take the time to ask questions of doctors and seek medical advice or second opinions? You don’t want your surrogate to blindly follow your doctor’s advice. Or be afraid to ask questions. Do they know to ask about any new medications affecting current medications?

Can they communicate with other family members and friends, knowing what information to divulge and what to hold back?

You want someone familiar with your family dynamics and sensitivities. For example, maybe you want to keep certain things private such as being HIV positive or having psychological issues.

Do they live close enough to you to be able to visit hospitals or care facilities?

It is a burden on your health care power of attorney to handle medical issues and personnel remotely. Ideally, they can be on location to supervise your care and comfort and know what you need.

Once you identify your agent

Once you choose your agent, it is wise to name them in a health care power of attorney document.  Share your document with your doctors and family.

What else do you need to do to get your estate plan in order? Make an appointment with an estate planning attorney today. Or look for Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation: How to Help Your Parents and Protect Your Kids.