When people say “Power of Attorney,” they’re usually thinking about money — bills, banks, property. But there’s a second, equally important document that handles something money can’t: your medical care. It’s called a healthcare Power of Attorney, and nearly every adult should have one.
What it does
A healthcare Power of Attorney (also called a medical Power of Attorney or healthcare proxy) names someone to make medical decisions for you if you’re ever unable to make them yourself — unconscious, sedated, or otherwise incapacitated. That person can:
- Choose doctors and treatment
- Consent to or refuse procedures
- Access your medical records
- Speak with your care team on your behalf
Why a financial Power of Attorney isn’t enough
This trips up a lot of families: a financial Power of Attorney does *not* give someone the right to make medical decisions. They’re separate documents with separate authority. You can have one without the other — and in a medical crisis, the financial one won’t help the hospital know who’s allowed to decide.
Why every adult needs one — not just seniors
Medical emergencies don’t check your age. A car accident or sudden illness can leave anyone unable to speak for themselves. Without a healthcare Power of Attorney, your loved ones may have to go to court to gain the authority to make decisions — during the worst moment of their lives. A simple document spares them that.
Pair it with a living will
Many people combine a healthcare Power of Attorney with a living will (advance directive), which spells out your wishes about life support and end-of-life care. Together, they make sure the right person is deciding *and* that they know what you’d want.
If you’re helping a loved one — or getting your own affairs in order — understanding both the financial and healthcare sides of Power of Attorney is exactly what the National Handbook is built to make clear.
This article is plain-English education, not legal advice. Power of Attorney law varies by state, and reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. For guidance on your specific situation, talk with a licensed attorney in your state.