Choosing a Health Care Power of Attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make right now. Taking the time to designate someone you trust to make and carry out all health care decisions on your behalf, especially if you are young, can seem scary and far into the future. But doing so is essential to protecting yourself and your estate, no matter your age or health.

Unfortunately many people fail to even have a Health Care Power of Attorney (POA).  A Health Care POA only goes into effect when you are incapacitated. It allows your designated Health Care Agent to make medical decisions in your best interest if you are unable to do so. They will be legally allowed to sign the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Release Form, known as HIPAA. This gives them immediate access to your health records and allows them to speak directly to your doctors on your behalf regarding your care and well-being.

When you designate a Health Care POA, be specific about what decisions you are giving them the power to make on your behalf by also activating a Living Will. A Living Will is a legal document that a person uses to make his or her wishes known regarding life prolonging medical treatments. As your designated Health Care Agent, you can give them the power to make any and all end of life decisions. They can be authorized to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging measures, including artificial life support or nutrition and hydration.

Be prepared for the unexpected. Take the time now while you are healthy and fully alert to designate who you want to make decisions for you and represent your best interests and wishes if you are unable to do so.