Experienced Health Care Power Of Attorney Lawyer In Memphis

A health care power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf when you become unable to communicate your wishes due to illness or incapacity. 

At Crislip Philip, in Memphis, our lawyers help clients create comprehensive health care power of attorney documents that protect their patient rights and provide clear guidance for their chosen agents during difficult medical situations.

Understanding Health Care Power Of Attorney Documents

A medical power of attorney becomes effective only when your physician determines that you lack the capacity to make informed medical decisions for yourself. Unlike a living will that provides specific instructions for certain scenarios, a health care power of attorney gives your agent broader authority to make various health care choices based on your known wishes and best interests.

This advance directive differs from a living will because it appoints a decision-maker rather than simply stating preferences. Your agent can access your medical information under HIPAA regulations and communicate with health care providers about your treatment options.

Scope Of Agent Authority

Your health care agent can make most medical treatment decisions, including consenting to or refusing medical procedures, choosing health care providers, and making decisions about end-of-life care. 

The agent’s authority only applies when you cannot make decisions yourself. If you remain capable of expressing your wishes, your preferences always take precedence over your agent’s decisions.

Importance Of Professional Legal Guidance

Creating a valid health care power of attorney requires careful consideration of Tennessee’s legal requirements and your specific family circumstances. Our attorneys help you choose the right person to serve as your agent, determine whether to appoint alternate agents and draft comprehensive documents that clearly outline your wishes and your agent’s authority.

Without a health care power of attorney in place, family members may need to seek court-appointed guardianship to make medical decisions, creating delays and potential conflicts during medical emergencies.

Contact Our Memphis Health Care Planning Attorneys

Contact Crislip Philip through our online contact form or call 901-201-5078 to discuss your advance care planning needs with experienced Tennessee health care attorneys.