What is a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare?

by Christine Steinmetz, Hotline Attorney

This post is part one of a series of blog posts examining Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare. 

The Legal Hotline receives several calls each week regarding the Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare. Many of us have heard of a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, and some have been provided with a copy of this document from our healthcare provider. However, many clients call with questions regarding this document.

First, a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare is a legal form that allows a person to appoint an agent, called a “Patient Advocate”, to make healthcare decisions for them when they are unable participate in medical treatment decisions.

Modern medicine allows people to prolong their lives through artificial means, such as respirators and dialysis machines. However, if you want to limit these means, you will want to draft a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare…