What is a Medical Durable Power of Attorney?

A Medical Durable Power of Attorney document authorizes another person to make healthcare 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 healthcare decisions on behalf of the person who becomes incapacitated—for example, a person who is in a coma after a car accident.

Medical Durable Powers of Attorney are effective until revoked or death occurs.  At least every two years, the document should be reviewed to ensure the individual appointed and the healthcare decisions expressed are still appropriate.