Page 11 - Advance Directives Proof

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY

1 What is a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare?

A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare (DPAHC), also referred to as a healthcare
proxy, allows you to appoint a person to make all decisions regarding your healthcare,
including choices about healthcare providers and medical treatment, if for any reason
you are not able to make them yourself. You should not execute an advance directive
without having first thought about end-of-life issues, considered your personal values,
and discussed your wishes for care at the end of life with people close to you such as
your family, physicians, attorney, and clergy or spiritual leader.

The person you choose as your healthcare agent does not have to be a lawyer.

2 Who can you select as a Healthcare Agent?

You can appoint almost any adult to be your healthcare agent, such as your spouse,
child, brother or sister, or even a close friend. You should choose someone who is
trustworthy, has your best interests in mind, and will make your healthcare decisions
according to your intended wishes. Be sure to talk to the person(s) you have
selected so they understand and agree to accept the responsibility.
The following people cannot be appointed as your healthcare agent:

• Your healthcare provider.

• An employee of your healthcare provider unless they are related to you.

• Someone who runs a community care facility.

• An employee of someone who runs a community care facility, unless they are
related to you.

3 When does the DPAHC take effect?

When you are no longer able to communicate with your healthcare provider.

4 What happens if you regain the capacity to make your own decisions with a

DPAHC in effect?

If your doctor says that you are able to make or communicate a health-related
decision once again, two things will happen:

1. Your healthcare agent’s authority will end.

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