What is a health care power of attorney and who needs one?

A health care power of attorney is a legal document that makes it possible for another person to direct your health care in the event you can't. The person you authorize to direct your health care is called your "agent" or "agent for health care".

While health care facilities may have health care powers of attorney available for you to sign, that power of attorney may or may not give you the opportunity to express your wishes. Be sure to carefully read the document before you sign it to make sure it says what you want it to say. And, make sure there is a HIPAA authorization that allows your health care providers to talk to your agent.

Married people frequently name their spouse as their agent. Unmarried people often name their partner if they are in a committed relationship. Other people named are children, brothers or sisters, or other family members. Anyone can be named as your health care agent. It is important to make sure you trust your agent completely as they will be making serious decisions on your behalf.

Who needs to have a health care power of attorney? Every adult needs a health care power of attorney.

If you are in a committed relationship, but not married, health care powers of attorney are of particular importance. The reason is that if your partner is seriously injured or develops a serious illness, you will be excluded from all care decisions. Under some circumstances, you may not be permitted in the hospital room to assist in the care of your partner. That's a possibility that doesn't need to happen.

Whether you are married or not, talk to your partner about his or her health care wishes. Let him or her know where your health care power and HIPAA document can be found. If you don't have a health care power or a HIPAA document, consider getting one - for your peace of mind and that of your partner or spouse.