Important Information Your Healthcare Agent Needs to Know

Even if you are currently in good health, an unexpected illness or injury could leave you unable to make your own medical decisions. A medical power of attorney is a critical component of your estate plan that allows you to designate a trusted individual (your agent) to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if needed.

To ensure your wishes are honored, it is essential to provide your agent with clear guidance so they can act with confidence during what may be a stressful and emotional time. 

What Is a Medical Power of Attorney?

A medical power of attorney (also called a healthcare power of attorney) is a legal document that authorizes someone you trust to make medical decisions for you if you become unable to communicate or manage your own care.

Your agent is legally obligated to make decisions based on your known wishes. Or, if those wishes are unclear, in your best interest. While most states prohibit naming your healthcare provider as your agent, you may choose any competent adult you trust. 

This document must be properly executed in accordance with state law, typically requiring signatures, witnesses, or notarization. In most cases, it becomes effective only when you are unable to communicate your own healthcare decisions. 

What Your Agent Needs to Know 

Choosing the right person is only the first step. Equally important is preparing them for the role. 

Have an open and thorough conversation with your agent about your preferences, values, and expectations. Providing this information in writing can be especially helpful when decisions must be made quickly.

Key information to share includes:

• Preferred providers: Provide contact details for your primary physician and any specialists, and note any providers you prefer to avoid.
• Hospital and facility preferences: Identify preferred hospitals or clinics, as well as any you do not wish to use.
• Medical conditions: Share relevant diagnoses or health conditions that may affect treatment decisions.
• Medical history: Include past surgeries, procedures, and significant treatments, along with approximate dates.
• Medications: Provide a current list of medications and clearly note any you do not want administered.
• Allergies: Document all allergies (especially medication-related) to help prevent serious complications.
• Quality-of-life preferences: Explain what matters most to you. For example, do you prioritize comfort over life-prolonging treatment? How do you feel about interventions such as ventilators or feeding tubes?
• Spiritual or religious beliefs: Share any beliefs that may influence your care, including preferences for clergy involvement or end-of-life rituals.

It is also strongly recommended that you name at least one backup (successor) agent in case your primary agent is unavailable when needed.

Keep the Conversation Ongoing

A medical power of attorney is not a one-time decision. As your health, relationships, and preferences evolve, your plan should be reviewed and updated. 

Revisiting your wishes with your agent periodically can help ensure they remain prepared and aligned with your current goals. 

How Strauss Can Help

A medical power of attorney is not about expecting the worst. It is about making sure the person you trust is ready to advocate for you when it matters most. 

We can help you create or update a plan that clearly communicates your wishes and protects you and your loved ones. Contact us today to get started.