Medical Power of Attorney & Advance Healthcare Directives

What is a Medical Power of Attorney?

A Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA), also known as a Healthcare Power of Attorney, is a legal document that allows you to:

✔️ Appoint a trusted person (your healthcare agent) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
✔️ Ensure your medical care aligns with your values and preferences.
✔️ Avoid legal disputes between family members regarding your treatment.
✔️ Provide clear instructions to doctors and hospitals about your care.

This document goes into effect only if you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself due to illness, injury, or incapacity.

What is an Advance Healthcare Directive?

An Advance Healthcare Directive (AHCD) is a legally binding document that outlines your medical treatment preferences and end-of-life care instructions. It typically includes:

✅ Living Will – Specifies treatments you do or do not want (e.g., life support, ventilators, feeding tubes).
✅ Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders – States whether you wish to be resuscitated if your heart stops.
✅ Pain Management & Palliative Care Preferences – Details on comfort care and pain relief.
✅ Organ Donation Preferences – Indicates whether you wish to donate your organs or tissues.
✅ Religious or Ethical Directives – Includes any specific faith-based medical preferences.

With an Advance Directive, you stay in control of your healthcare decisions, even if you cannot speak for yourself.

Why You Need a Medical Power of Attorney & Advance Directive

Without these documents, your family may face:

⚠️ Confusion & Conflict – Loved ones may disagree about your care.
⚠️ Delayed Medical Decisions – Doctors may hesitate to act without legal authority.
⚠️ Court Intervention – A court-appointed guardian may decide your care instead of your loved ones.
⚠️ Unwanted Medical Treatments – You may receive life-prolonging treatments against your wishes.

By setting up a Medical Power of Attorney & Advance Healthcare Directive, you ensure your voice is heard and your wishes are legally protected.

Who Should Have a Medical Power of Attorney & Advance Directive?

Everyone should have these documents, but they are especially crucial if you:

🏥 Have a serious medical condition or chronic illness.
👴 Are aging and want to ensure your wishes are honored.
✈️ Travel frequently and want protection in case of an emergency.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Want to avoid burdening your family with difficult medical decisions.

Even young, healthy individuals can face unexpected medical situations, making advance planning essential.

What Happens If You Don’t Have These Documents?

If you become incapacitated without a Medical Power of Attorney or Advance Healthcare Directive:

❌ Your family may have to go to court to obtain guardianship.
❌ Doctors may follow standard procedures, even if they go against your wishes.
❌ Disagreements between family members could cause legal disputes and delays in your care.

By taking action now, you prevent these issues and give yourself peace of mind.

How Brentwood Law Can Help

✔️ Attorney-Drafted Documents – Customized to your unique needs and preferences.
✔️ Legally Binding Protection – Ensures your healthcare wishes are honored.
✔️ Flat Fees & Transparent Pricing – No surprises, just honest legal guidance.
✔️ Fast & Convenient Process – We handle everything for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ What is the difference between a Medical Power of Attorney and an Advance Directive?
A Medical Power of Attorney allows someone to make medical decisions for you, while an Advance Directive outlines your specific treatment preferences for doctors and hospitals to follow.

❓ Who should I choose as my healthcare agent?
Pick someone you trust completely, such as a spouse, adult child, or close friend, who understands your values and is willing to advocate for your medical wishes.

❓ Can I update my Medical Power of Attorney and Advance Directive?
Yes! You should review and update these documents every few years, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or serious illness.

❓ Will my doctors automatically follow my Advance Directive?
Yes, hospitals and doctors are legally required to follow your documented medical wishes as long as they comply with state laws.

Protect Your Medical Rights Today

A Medical Power of Attorney and Advance Healthcare Directive ensure that your medical wishes are honored, your family is protected, and your care is in trusted hands.