While it may be a slightly disturbing process, it is important that individuals create advance directives for health care in preparation in advance of medical emergencies.

Individuals may designate an “agent” with the power of attorney for health care.  This person will make health care decisions in the event that the individual cannot. Before designating an agent, one should make sure that he or she is aware of wishes concerning future health care and that they are willing to continue or stop medical treatment in accordance with one’s wishes.

An agent may be granted varying levels of power. For example, an agent may be instructed to do everything possible to keep a person alive or to take into consideration any treatment that would limit pain and suffering.

An agent may be named in a few different ways:

• A Short Form Power of Attorney for Health Care
  • This form can be obtained from a lawyer or doctor
  • The forms are also posted on the Illinois Department of Public Health Web site
• One may alternatively write personal power of attorney document provided it
  • Names the person who will serve as your agent
  • Describes the power you grant your agent
  • Is signed and dated while the person is still able to make autonomous decisions

Changes may be made to the designated agent or any section of a power of attorney for health care by identifying the change in writing, then signing and dating it.  The document be cancelled it at any time in a number of ways, including tearing it in half or drawing an "X" across it.

Individuals should be certain that their agent and doctor have an updated copy of the power of attorney for health care and that they understand the wishes described.

Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.