A medical power of attorney is an important legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. It’s important that you make an informed decision about this document in your estate plans as it can impact your future and the future of your loved ones.
The compassionate attorneys at Law Office of Julie A. Paquette know that decisions like these can be difficult to make on your own. Our attorneys have years of experience helping Michigan families understand the many factors involved in estate planning, including the creation of medical powers of attorney. We can provide compassionate guidance and support, ensuring your wishes are respected and your future is protected. Contact our Michigan office today to discuss your needs.
Why Do You Need a Medical Power of Attorney?
Unexpected medical situations can arise at any time. A serious illness, accident, or other medical event could leave you unable to communicate your healthcare preferences. Without a medical power of attorney, medical professionals will make decisions based on what they believe is in your best interest, which may not align with your personal values or wishes.
In some cases, family members might have disagreements about the best course of treatment, which can lead to additional stress on your family.
A medical power of attorney in Michigan eliminates any potential disputes or uncertainties.It ensures that your chosen agent can make informed decisions based on their understanding of your values and your previously expressed wishes.
The experienced attorneys at Law Office of Julie A. Paquette can help you draft a comprehensive medical power of attorney that addresses potential healthcare scenarios and clearly outlines your preferences.
Who Should You Choose as Your Agent?
Choosing the right agent for your power of attorney is a big decision. This person will have significant responsibility, making critical medical decisions on your behalf. Select someone you trust implicitly, who understands your values and healthcare preferences, and who is comfortable making difficult decisions in stressful situations
It’s also a good idea to discuss your healthcare wishes with your chosen agent before you designate them in the document to help them understand your wishes. We can help facilitate these conversations and ensure your medical power of attorney reflects the needs of your unique situation.
What Decisions Can Your Medical Power of Attorney Agent Make in Michigan?
Your medical power of attorney gives your agent the authority to make a range of medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to. Some of these decisions can include:
- Consenting to or refusing medical treatment, including surgery, medication, and therapies.
- Choosing doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare providers.
- Admitting you to or discharging you from a hospital or other medical facility.
- Making decisions about life support and other end-of-life care.
- Accessing your medical records.
The scope of your agent’s authority can be tailored to your specific wishes. You can include specific instructions or limitations in your medical power of attorney to ensure your preferences are followed.
The Importance of Updating Your Medical Power of Attorney
Circumstances in your life could change at any time. You may need to update your medical power of attorney if your chosen agent becomes unavailable or if your healthcare preferences change. It’s a good idea to review your medical power of attorney periodically, especially after significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, or the death of a loved one.
Keeping your medical power of attorney up-to-date is essential to ensure it accurately reflects your current wishes. Our team can help you review and update your document as needed, ensuring it remains a valuable tool for protecting your healthcare future.
Contact Us For a Consultation
The experienced attorneys at Law Office of Julie A. Paquette can help you create a document that clearly defines the scope of your agent’s authority. We are here to provide compassionate guidance and support, helping you plan for a secure and healthy future for you and your family. Contact us today for a consultation!
