What is the primary purpose of a Medical Durable Power of Attorney?

The primary purpose of a Medical Durable Power of Attorney is to designate a surrogate decision maker for healthcare. This legal document allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make medical decisions on their behalf in the event that they become unable to communicate or make such decisions themselves.

This arrangement is crucial, as it ensures that someone familiar with the patient's values and preferences is able to advocate for their best interests during critical medical situations. The designated individual, often referred to as the agent or attorney-in-fact, can make healthcare decisions that align with what the patient would have wanted, thus providing a clear framework for care that reflects the patient’s wishes.

While outlining a patient’s healthcare preferences, providing instructions to healthcare providers, and granting permission for participation in medical research are all important aspects of the healthcare decision-making process, they are not the primary focus of a Medical Durable Power of Attorney. Instead, the central function of this document is to appoint a trusted decision-maker during times when the patient is incapacitated.