What is a durable power of attorney in healthcare?

A durable power of attorney in healthcare is specifically designed to appoint an individual to make medical decisions on behalf of another person in the event that they become unable to do so themselves. This legal document grants the designated person, often referred to as the healthcare proxy or agent, the authority to make important healthcare choices based on the preferences and best interests of the individual who granted the power.

This type of document ensures that a person's values and wishes regarding medical treatment are honored, particularly in critical situations where they may be incapacitated and unable to communicate their desires. The durability aspect indicates that this authority remains in effect even if the individual becomes mentally incompetent.

In contrast, other alternatives like detailing organ donation wishes or authorizing medical research participation do not directly confer decision-making authority in medical situations. The directive to withhold resuscitation is a specific medical order that focuses on a particular treatment decision, rather than providing a broader scope of authority for healthcare decisions.