Do You Understand The Purpose Of A Healthcare Power Of Attorney? 3 Points
No one likes to think about a time when they will be unable to communicate. It’s a frightening and uncomfortable feeling. Wouldn’t it be a comfort to know that your wishes will always be respected, even if you’re not able to talk to healthcare workers or make your wishes known?
End-of-life planning, whether for yourself or for a parent is a vital conversation everyone should have, and the key is the purpose of a healthcare power of attorney.
What Is the Purpose of a Healthcare Power of Attorney?
A healthcare power of attorney provides peace of mind and guidance during some of life’s most challenging times. If you are sick, injured, or in any type of healthcare situation where you can’t speak or communicate your wishes, the person selected as your healthcare power of attorney would make them.
You don’t have to have experienced a major accident or illness to need a healthcare power of attorney. It is also a critical consideration for someone struggling with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
We believe it’s vital to understand the scope of purposes from a healthcare power of attorney, so we wanted to list three ways they can help you.
3 Ways a Healthcare Power of Attorney Helps You
1. They Ensure Your Medical Wishes Are Respected
Perhaps you don’t have a problem letting your medical wishes be known. But please realize this may not always be the case. There are situations where the purpose of a healthcare power of attorney is essential. They will be in charge of all medical decisions. This includes:
- Whether or not to receive treatments
- Mental health care treatment
- Organ and tissue donations
- Decisions about life support measures
- Decisions on palliative care and pain management measures
2. They Help Avoid Family Conflicts
A serious, chronic illness is stressful for anyone, and family arguments and disagreements can make the entire situation worse. With a healthcare power of attorney, there’s no question about what you or your loved one wants. This avoids family confusion during emergencies and can provide valuable legal protection.
3. They Give You Peace of Mind
Facing the unexpected is always a challenge. Too often, our minds can be bombarded with ‘what if’ scenarios that rob us of our peace.
While facing a health crisis is daunting, a healthcare power of attorney provides the peace of mind knowing your wishes will be followed.
Whom Should I Choose As My Healthcare Proxy?
Your healthcare proxy will have significant responsibility. Choose someone you trust deeply and who understands your values. You may want to consider a caring, compassionate family member for this role.
Keep in mind that some states have specific requirements about who can serve as a healthcare proxy—so if you’re choosing someone outside your family, be sure to review the state rules carefully.
Once you’ve selected your healthcare proxy, you have to document your choice. This document must be signed and witnessed in accordance with state requirements.
We understand that the many technicalities and tiny details can make this complicated. That’s why we always suggest that you consult with an attorney when completing these important papers.
What’s the Difference Between Having a Living Will and a Healthcare Power of Attorney Document?
It’s important to understand what makes a living will and a healthcare power of attorney different. A living will is focused on how you want to receive medical treatment in a serious, end-of-life situation. It makes your wishes known, which is particularly imperative if you are permanently unconscious or unable to communicate.
A healthcare power of attorney appoints someone to make those medical decisions that are in line with what you want.
A living will outline your wishes. A healthcare power of attorney appoints someone with the authority to implement them.
Want to know more? We’ve compiled a useful end-of-life planning checklist for your review.
At Coastal Pointe, We Offer Independence Coupled With the Assistance You Need
Our healthcare team is dedicated to your well-being or that of your loved one. It’s a perfect environment where you can be both independent and enjoy a helping hand when needed most.
While we don’t provide legal services, we can let you know which documents you should consider having as part of your advanced care planning.
With nutritious meals, a full calendar of activities and an inviting, “Main Street” decor, we provide the best in assisted living at one of the newest assisted living communities in Shallotte. We invite you to take a tour. Hurry, our spaces fill quickly!
Due to the vital importance of having a healthcare power of attorney, we highly recommend speaking with an attorney about your individual case. This blog is not a substitute for legal advice.