Advance directives are decisions you make ahead of time about what you would like to have happen if you become unable to make your own medical decisions because of an illness or injury. A medical power of attorney is one type of advance directive.

Function

A medical power of attorney, also called a durable power of attorney for health care, is a document you use to place someone else in charge of making your medical decisions. The person named in this document is called a health care agent.

Powers Granted

A medical power of attorney can give your health care agent the power to make decisions about what type of treatment you receive and whether a ventilator, feeding tube or other life-support devices will be used to keep you alive.

Limitations

Health care agents can't act on your behalf for any financial or legal matters, such as performing transactions on bank accounts, buying or selling property, or liquidating investments.

Selection

Selecting who will serve as your health care agent is an important decision. It should be someone you trust to act in your best interests and respect your personal beliefs and values. Medical power of attorney documents can be revoked if you ever want to name a new agent.

Considerations

Depending on your particular situation, a medical power of attorney may not be the best advance directive for you. Consult a lawyer about your options and the process of naming a medical power of attorney in your state.

Source:

Mayo Clinic