What is a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care?

A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care is another kind of advance directive: a signed, dated, and witnessed legal document in which you can name another person, an agent, to make medical decisions for you, if you become unable to make them. In a healthcare power of attorney, you can describe treatment you want and do not want. Also, this form of advance directive can relate to any medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s Disease, not just a terminal illness. Georgia law describes a healthcare power of attorney form, but other forms are also acceptable. A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care can be written without the advice of a lawyer, although you may decide consultation with your attorney would be helpful.