Healthcare Power of Attorney
What Is a Healthcare POA?
A Healthcare Power of Attorney (also called a Medical POA or Healthcare Proxy) is a legal document that appoints a trusted person — your “healthcare agent” — to make medical decisions if you are incapacitated.
Under A.R.S. §36-3221, Arizona adults can execute a Healthcare POA to ensure their treatment preferences are honored, even in the most critical moments. This document gives your agent the legal standing to work directly with healthcare providers on your behalf.
Without this document, medical teams may be legally required to take all available life-sustaining measures, even if that is not what you would have wanted. A Healthcare POA ensures your voice is heard even when you cannot speak.
This document can be as specific or general as you wish. You can instruct your agent on your preferences regarding resuscitation, ventilator use, pain management, hospice care, and more. Having these conversations in advance — and recording them legally — is one of the most compassionate gifts you can give your family.
Your Agent Can
Paired with a Living Will
We strongly recommend pairing your Healthcare POA with an Arizona Living Will (also called an Advance Directive). The Living Will records your specific end-of-life preferences, while the Healthcare POA appoints someone to interpret and act upon those preferences in real time.
Why Plan Now?
You Control the Decisions
Protect Your Family
Arizona-Compliant Document
Common Questions
When does a Healthcare POA take effect?
It activates only when your physician certifies in writing that you are unable to make your own medical decisions.
Can I pair this with a Living Will?
Yes — and it’s highly recommended. A Living Will outlines your specific wishes while the Healthcare POA appoints someone to act on them.
Can my agent override doctors?
Your agent acts within the boundaries you set in the document. They advocate for your wishes but cannot override clinically necessary emergency care.
Who should I choose as my healthcare agent?
Choose someone who knows your values, can handle emotional pressure, is available to act quickly, and is willing to advocate firmly on your behalf with medical professionals.