Planning Ahead Matters: Why You Need a Medical Power of Attorney

As the leaves change and we enter the heart of autumn, it’s a good time to think about planning ahead—not just for holidays, but for life’s unexpected moments. One critical document that often gets overlooked is a Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA).

A Medical Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to designate someone you trust to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are ever unable to do so. While it’s easy to assume these situations won’t happen to us, the truth is that accidents and sudden illness can strike at any time.

Here’s why having a Medical Power of Attorney is so important:

1. Ensures Your Wishes Are Respected
   Without an MPOA, medical decisions may fall to doctors or family members who may not know your preferences. By designating someone you trust, you ensure your values and choices guide your care.

2. Reduces Family Stress
   During a medical crisis, emotions run high. A clear MPOA can prevent confusion or disagreements among loved ones, making difficult situations less stressful for everyone involved.

3. Provides Legal Authority
   Hospitals and healthcare providers require a legally recognized agent to make decisions if you cannot. A properly executed MPOA ensures your chosen agent has the authority to act on your behalf immediately.

4. What Happens if You Don’t Have One
   If you become incapacitated without a Medical Power of Attorney, your loved ones may face significant challenges:

   • Family disputes: Relatives may disagree on medical treatment decisions, which can lead to emotional stress and conflict.

   • Court involvement: In some cases, family members may need to go through a court process to be appointed as a guardian or conservator, delaying critical care.

   • Decisions made without your input: Doctors may have to make choices based on standard medical practices rather than your personal values or preferences.

5. Offers Peace of Mind
   Planning ahead gives you and your family confidence that you are protected. Knowing that your healthcare wishes will be honored allows you to focus on recovery or simply living life fully.

6. Works Alongside Other Estate Planning Documents
   A Medical Power of Attorney complements other estate planning tools, like living wills and advance directives, creating a comprehensive plan that safeguards both your health and your loved ones.

Take Action This October
Fall is the perfect time to review your estate planning documents or create them if you haven’t yet. A Medical Power of Attorney is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.

At Zarda Law, we help clients navigate these decisions with clarity and confidence. Don’t wait for a medical crisis to make your wishes known—contact us today to create or update your Medical Power of Attorney.

Schedule a Legacy Session HERE to discuss your current situation with Lisa and get personalized estate planning recommendations. Let's work together to secure your legacy and protect your loved ones.

This article is a service of Zarda Law, S.C. We do not just draft documents; we ensure you make informed decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get financially organized and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by scheduling a Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge.