Medical POA: Qualities to search out

Published By | Jan 24, 2023 | Estate Planning |

A medical power of attorney gives you more security as you grow older. You can rest assured that someone you love is going to make your medical choices for you. The power of attorney is a legal document that gives them this ability. This is similar to using an advance directive to give instructions to your medical team, but you are instead telling this other individual that they can make decisions for you.

There are many benefits to using this system, but only if you choose the right person. Here are some things to look for.

You can trust them to make decisions

First off, you have to trust that they will actually show up and make these decisions when necessary. They won’t go back on their word. Additionally, you need someone whose decision-making abilities are in line with your own. You need to trust that they will do what you would’ve chosen if you were able to communicate it to your medical team.

They do not live too far away

The world is smaller than ever these days, but you still don’t want to pick someone who lives prohibitively far from you. Medical emergencies can happen very quickly. Decisions may need to be made immediately. If that person is in the local area and can come to the hospital, it’s important for them to be able to do so at a moment’s notice.

They are willing and able to do it

Do not hesitate to ask the person that you want to choose if they’re actually willing to do this job or not. Remember that it can be hard for someone to make end-of-life decisions for another individual. You need someone who has both of the cognitive ability to make these hard choices and the emotional strength to make decisions even when it’s tough.

After you decide who you would like to choose for your power of attorney, you need to know how to legally set up the correct documentation.