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Writer's pictureTravis Gasper

The Hidden Risks of Not Having a Medical Power of Attorney

In life, we often plan for the expected – our careers, vacations, and even our daily routines. However, few of us consider what might happen if we were suddenly unable to make medical decisions for ourselves. This is where a Medical Power of Attorney (MPOA) becomes crucial. Without it, you might be leaving your health and future to chance.


What is a Medical Power of Attorney?

  • Definition: A legal document that designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

  • Purpose: Ensures your healthcare wishes are followed even when you can’t communicate them.

The Hidden Risks:

  1. Family Disputes:

  • Scenario: Without an MPOA, family members might disagree on the best course of action for your medical treatment.

  • Impact: These disagreements can lead to delays in treatment, added stress for your loved ones, and potentially decisions that don’t align with your wishes.

  • Example: Imagine a scenario where you’re in a coma, and your parents and spouse have different opinions on whether to continue life support. Without an MPOA, this decision could be prolonged and emotionally charged.

  1. Unwanted Medical Interventions:

  • Scenario: In the absence of an MPOA, medical professionals may proceed with treatments you wouldn’t have chosen.

  • Impact: You might receive life-sustaining treatments that go against your preferences, leading to prolonged suffering or unwanted outcomes.

  • Example: Without an MPOA, doctors might perform invasive procedures that you would have preferred to avoid, prolonging suffering.

  1. Legal Complications:

  • Scenario: Without clear instructions, your healthcare providers may be uncertain about who has the authority to make decisions.

  • Impact: This can lead to legal battles, court interventions, and significant delays in care.

  • Example: Your healthcare decisions could be delayed as a court decides who should have the authority to make them, potentially worsening your condition.

  1. Stress on Loved Ones:

  • Scenario: Your family and friends are left to make difficult decisions without knowing your preferences.

  • Impact: This can cause emotional distress and guilt, knowing they had to guess what you would have wanted.

  • Example: Your loved ones might experience significant stress and guilt, not knowing if they made the right decisions for you.

Real-Life Examples:

  • Case Study 1: A young adult without an MPOA was in a car accident. Their parents disagreed on treatment options, leading to a court case that delayed critical care.

  • Case Study 2: An elderly woman without an MPOA received aggressive treatments in her final days, contrary to her desire for a peaceful, pain-free passing.

Call to Action: Don’t leave your medical decisions to chance. Protect yourself and your loved ones by creating a Medical Power of Attorney today. Contact us to learn how we can help you get started.


Date: August 13th

Time: 6 p.m.

Why Attend?

  • Expert Advice: Learn from seasoned professionals about the importance of having an MPOA.

  • Interactive Q&A: Get your questions answered live.

  • Free Resources: Receive valuable materials to help you start your planning process.

Register Now! Don’t miss this opportunity to safeguard your future and ease the burden on your loved ones. Click here to reserve your spot for our free webinar, Smart Planning for the Future (SPF) — Don’t Get Burned!. Ensure your peace of mind and protect those you care about.

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