As you begin the estate planning process, you might think about what you’ll leave behind for your loved ones. However, you must also consider who will take care of you if you become incapacitated or are otherwise unable to make decisions before your passing. In this case, you should designate someone as a medical power of attorney (POA). Below is more information about this essential estate planning provision.

What Is It?

When you assign someone as a medical power of attorney, you sign a document that allows them to make health-related decisions on your behalf. This only comes into effect if you cannot make these choices yourself. For example, if you go into a coma and do not regain consciousness quickly, your doctor may decide that your medical power of attorney applies. Then, the individual you designated—such as a spouse or child—could determine how to proceed with your care. 

What’s Is the Difference Between a “Durable” & “Nondurable” POA?

The explanation above is more specifically referred to as a “durable” power of attorney. This means that the person you choose can make decisions at any anytime, even when you are no longer of sound mind.

However, a nondurable power of attorney would cease to be valid once you experience a coma or lapse in mental health. Therefore, nondurable varieties are much less common. For example, you might enact this to allow your spouse to sign documents on your behalf if you must be out of the country for some time.

What Are the Benefits of a POA?

When you designate a medical power of attorney, you will know that your life—and the health care decisions that affect it—are in the hands of a trusted individual. In this case, they’ll do whatever they can to uphold your wishes—such as whether you want to receive or refuse life support.

If you don’t have a POA in place, the law will put your next of kin in charge of your health care decisions. In some cases—such as a recent separation from your spouse—you may not approve of this automatic decision. With a signed power of attorney, you can ensure that the person you trust most is in charge.

To put a trusted individual at the helm of your health care treatments, reach out to The Law Offices of Bromm, Lindahl, Freeman-Caddy & Lausterer. Their firm is based in Wahoo, NE, and they have been providing estate planning services to clients since 1893. With the coveted AV Preeminent™ rating from Martindale-Hubbell® and a reputation for versatility, you can rely on this firm for a wide range of legal needs. To learn more about their practice areas, visit the website. Call (402) 443-3225 to schedule a consultation.