A medical power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated. This person is called your "agent." Your agent will have the authority to make decisions about your medical care, including:
Choosing your doctors and other healthcare providers
Consenting to or refusing treatment
Making decisions about your living will or other end-of-life care documents
A medical POA is different from a general power of attorney, which allows your agent to make financial decisions for you. A medical POA is only valid for medical decisions.
How to Create a Medical Power of Attorney in Texas?
To create a medical POA in Texas, you will need to:
- Download the Texas Medical Power of Attorney form from the Texas Medical Association website.
- Complete the form and have it signed by you and two witnesses.
- Have the form notarized.
You can also create a medical POA by using an online service or hiring an attorney. We also have POA forms available through our firm.
What Should You Include in Your Medical Power of Attorney?
Your medical POA should include the following information:
- Your name and date of birth
- Your agent's name and contact information
- The powers you are giving to your agent
- Any specific instructions you have for your agent
It is important to discuss your wishes with your agent before you create your medical POA. This will help ensure that your agent understands your wishes and is able to make decisions that are in your best interest.
Where to Keep Your Medical Power of Attorney?
You should keep your medical POA in a safe place where your agent can easily find it. You should also give a copy of your medical POA to your doctor and other healthcare providers.
Revoking a Medical Power of Attorney in Texas
You can revoke your medical POA at any time. To revoke your medical POA, you must sign a written document that revokes the POA. You must also have the revocation document witnessed or notarized.
Conclusion
A medical power of attorney is an important legal document that can help ensure that your wishes are followed if you become incapacitated. If you do not have a medical POA, your healthcare providers may have to rely on your family members or other close friends to make medical decisions for you. This can be a difficult and stressful situation for everyone involved.
If you are considering creating a medical POA, I encourage you to speak with an attorney to discuss your specific needs. Contact us at (210) 361-9796 or at the link provided here.