The Power of Planning: Why You Need a Medical Power of Attorney Now A Power of Attorney (POA) is the most important document you can sign to ensure your financial and medical wishes are honored if you become incapacitated. It allows you to choose who makes critical decisions on your behalf, preventing family distress and court intervention. The Essential Gift: Taking Control of Your Future A Power of Attorney (POA) is a foundational document in estate planning that allows you to appoint a trusted person (your Attorney or Agent) to act on your behalf if you lose the legal capacity to make decisions due to illness or injury. In the context of an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA), this appointment is split into two critical areas: 1. Financial/Personal Matters: Your Attorney manages bills, investments, property, and decisions about your living arrangements and support services. 2. Medical Treatment Decisions: This separate, vital power ensures your healthcare wishes are followed during a crisis. Medical Decisions: Ensuring Your Wishes Are Honored The person you appoint to handle your health choices is often referred to as a Medical Treatment Decision Maker (or Healthcare Agent). This role is crucial because they are empowered to: • Consent to or refuse specific medical treatments. • Make decisions about your long-term care and where you receive it. • Access your medical records to make informed choices. By putting this document in place, you ensure that the person making life-altering choices under pressure understands and respects your personal values, religious beliefs, and preferred medical outcomes. The Danger of Delay: When the State Decides A POA can only be created while you still have the necessary legal capacity. If you become ill or suffer an accident before signing one, it is too late. Without a valid POA or Medical Treatment Decision Maker appointment, your loved ones may be forced to apply to a court or tribunal (like VCAT in Victoria) to appoint an administrator or guardian. This process is often: • Costly and Time-Consuming: It adds immense stress to an already difficult time. • Lacks Personal Choice: A court-appointed guardian may not be the person you would have chosen. • Creates Conflict: It can fuel disputes among family members over who should be in charge. The time to secure your peace of mind and protect your family is now, while you are healthy and clearly able to express your intentions. Learn more: https://www.baysidewills.com.au/blog/power-of-attorney-vs-medical-decision-maker-vic/