Which term refers to a legal document that gives another person the authority to make a medical decision for an individual?

• A. Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
• B. Medical Power of Attorney
• C. Health Care Proxy
• D. Guardian

Answer: (A)

Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare is the document that names a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf, especially when you can’t communicate or understand your options. The key feature is durability: it remains in effect even if you become incapacitated, ensuring your chosen agent can consent to or refuse treatments, access medical information (within privacy rules), and guide care according to your wishes. This is different from guardianship, which is a court-appointed arrangement that grants decision-making power and is typically pursued through a formal legal process. Some areas use terms like Medical Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy for the same idea, but the durable power of attorney for healthcare is the standard form that ensures continuous authority when it matters most.