Sometimes called a living will, an advance directive is a legal document in which you state the type of health care you want if something happens that prevents you from expressing your preferences. In this estate planning tool, you give specific directions for medical professionals and family members to follow. For example, your directive may state whether or not you want to receive blood transfusions, prolong your life with mechanical life support systems, or pass away at home rather than in a hospital. 

What is a Power of Attorney for Health Care?

A power of attorney for health care is a legal document in which you authorize someone you trust to make decisions and take actions on your behalf regarding health care matters not included in your advance directive. You can give the person you name the right to access your health records, the responsibility to ensure doctors follow your advance directive instructions, and the authority to take legal action on your behalf to protect your rights if necessary.   

Georgia’s Combined Health Care Power of Attorney and Advance Directive    

Georgia uses a four-part advance directive document, the Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care. The first two sections of this new format combine the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and the Georgia Living Will for treatment preferences. The document’s third section lets you name a legal guardian who will serve if guardianship is needed. Two witnesses who are not family members must sign the document’s fourth section so it can become effective.