Medical Power of Attorney allows you to choose a trusted agent to make medical decisions when you are incapacitated.
February is American Heart Month, a movement established to help make people aware of heart health and preventative medicine and practices. An important part of that preparation includes establishing someone you trust as your medical power of attorney. A medical power of attorney is the person you have established to have the power to make medical decisions on your behalf. They will make medical decisions as if they were you, should you become incapacitated (and for the duration of your incapacitation).
What is Medical (or Healthcare) Power of Attorney?
A Healthcare Power of Attorney allows an agent to make medical decisions on behalf of a principal, subject to the terms of a written Power of Attorney authorization form. Power of Attorney is governed by state law. In Tennessee, it is governed by Section 34 of the Tennessee Code.
Healthcare Power of Attorney is already established in some cases, but can always be adjusted with legal documents. A parent is the agent for their children, and a legal spouse becomes your de facto agent once you are married. Establishing a Power of Attorney is especially important if someone wants their children to be able to make medical decisions, or if your wishes differ from those of your de facto agent.
At Batson Nolan PLC, we have many lawyers with an expertise in estate planning and trusts. When you consult with a Batson Nolan lawyer in Clarksville, Tennessee we can help you address your concerns and establish a procedure to ensure that your wishes are fulfilled. Contact us to learn more and establish a plan tailored to your needs.
