Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
What is a durable power of attorney for health care?
A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care document authorizes another person to make health care decisions for an individual who, temporarily or permanently, can no longer make or communicate such decisions.
The term “durable” means the individual appointed is authorized to make health care decisions on behalf of the person who becomes incapacitated—for example, a person who is in a coma after a car accident.
Without a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, the family member or close friend making the health care decision for you may not be the individual you would select.
For what period of time is a durable power of attorney for health care effective?
A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care is effective until revoked or death occurs. At least every two years, the document should be reviewed to ensure the individual appointed and the health care decisions expressed are still appropriate.
State Specific Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
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Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota
Download a state-specific living will from the
Caring Connections website. Search their site using the "Advance Directive" button located on the right-hand column of their home page.
