Everything You Need to Know About Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care
Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care (POAHC) allows individuals to appoint someone of their choice to make health care decisions for them if they become incapacitated and cannot make decisions for themselves. This document is an essential tool that gives people the power to make their own health care decisions. In this article, we will explore all the aspects of Wisconsin POAHC you should know about.
What is Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care?
Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care is a legal document that allows individuals to appoint someone of their choice to make decisions regarding their health care and medical treatment if they are unable to do so themselves. The person appointed in the POAHC is called the agent. The document takes effect only if the individual becomes incapacitated and cannot make decisions for themselves.
Why is Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care Necessary?
Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care is necessary because it gives individuals the power to make their own health care decisions. It ensures that their choices about their medical treatment are respected if they become incapacitated and cannot make decisions for themselves. Without a POAHC, the health care decisions may be made by family members, health care providers, or the courts, which may not always align with the individual’s wishes.
How to Create a Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care
To create a Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care, you must follow these steps:
1. Choose an agent: Choose a trusted person who understands your wishes about medical treatment and can make decisions accordingly.
2. Specify the agent’s powers: Specify what kind of health care decisions the agent may make on your behalf.
3. Include any additional instructions: Include any additional instructions regarding your medical treatment, organ donation, funeral arrangements, and end-of-life care.
4. Sign and date the document: You must sign and date the document in the presence of two witnesses.
5. Distribute copies: Distribute copies of the POAHC to your agent, your health care providers, and family members.
When Does Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care Take Effect?
Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care takes effect only if the individual becomes incapacitated and cannot make health care decisions for themselves. It does not take effect if the individual is still capable of making decisions.
Who Can be an Agent in Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care?
Any competent person over 18 years of age can be appointed as an agent in Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care. However, the following people cannot be agents:
1. The individual’s health care provider or employee of the health care provider.
2. An operator or employee of a health care facility where the individual is a resident.
3. A person who receives compensation in exchange for providing personal care services to the individual.
Conclusion
Wisconsin Power of Attorney for Health Care is an essential document that ensures individuals’ choices about their medical treatment are respected if they become incapacitated and cannot make decisions for themselves. By following the steps mentioned above, you can create this document and appoint someone to make health care decisions on your behalf. It is crucial to choose a trusted person who understands your wishes about medical treatment. Wisconsin POAHC is an essential tool that gives people the power to make their own health care decisions, even in the worst of times.
