A Health Care Power of Attorney is a legal document
that gives a person chosen by you (called your “Health Care Agent”) the power
to make decisions pertaining to medical treatment for you if you are unable to
do so.
Why would you need a Health Care Power of Attorney?
If you are unable to make your own medical decisions
due to mental incompetency, lack of capacity or other circumstances, someone
must make those decisions for you. A doctor must determine whether or not you
are able to make your own medical decisions. Your Health Care Agent will make
those decisions for you. You can advise your Health Care Agent on what
treatments and/or procedures you would or would not want. A Health Care Power
of Attorney is a way to plan for the unplanned scenarios and emergencies in
life.
Why do I need a lawyer for this?
A lawyer will be able to explain the various powers
covered by a Health Care Power of Attorney.
A lawyer will also be able to assist in the proper execution of a Health
Care Power of Attorney as well as advise on steps to take once the Health Care
Power of Attorney has been signed.
The attorneys of
White & Allen, P.A., are ready to counsel and advise you. Please call us at (252)-527-8000 or email mmurphrey@whiteandallen.com.
