What is a health care power of attorney?

A health care power of attorney (or health care proxy) is a legal document that allows someone to make health care decisions for you if you become unable to make those decisions. It may also be referred to as medical power of attorney. In Kansas, a health care POA allows you to designate who will decide your medical treatment if you become temporarily or permanently unable to do so. This document can include instructions about your wishes in the event that you become unable to make decisions for yourself. The person you choose to be your health care POA should be someone you trust and someone who understands your wishes. That person will be responsible for making decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Generally, those decisions will be based on what they understand to be in your best interests. It is important to have a health care POA if you live in Kansas. It is also important to keep it up-to-date with your current wishes regarding health care decisions and to discuss the document with your health care POA regularly. Without a health care POA, your family may have difficulty making decisions in a timely manner or they may disagree about what is best for you.

Related FAQs

What happens if I do not create a power of attorney?
What is the difference between a trust and a will?
What is probate?
What is Medicaid eligibility?
How can I ensure my elderly parent's wishes are respected after they pass away?
What is a living trust and what are the advantages and disadvantages of setting up one?
What is advance healthcare planning and how can I do it?
How do I plan for long-term care and elder care needs?
What is elder financial abuse?
What is a long-term care rider?

What is a health care power of attorney?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts