Medical Durable Power of Attorney

Important information about this legal document:

  • Before signing this document, it is very important for you to know and understand these facts:
  • This document gives the person you name as you agent the power to make health care decisions if you are unable to do so.  (these decisions and powers are not limited to terminal conditions and life support decisions.)
  • After you have signed this document you still have the right to make health care decisions for yourself if you are able to do so.
  • You may state in this document any type of treatment that you want to receive or want to avoid.  If you want your agent to make decisions about life sustaining treatment, it is best to so state in your Medical Durable Power of Attorney.
  • You have the right to take away the authority of your agent  unless you have been determined to be incompetent by a court.  If you withdraw (revoke) the authority of your agent, it is recommended that you do so in writing and give copies to all those who received the original document.
  • You should not sign this document unless you understand it.  You may wish to talk to others or a lawyer.
  • The Medical Durable Power of Attorney form in this pamphlet  may be used; however, it may not meet your individual needs. Other medical durable powers of attorney forms are acceptable according to Colorado law. Be sure the form you sign meets your needs.
  • The enclosed Medical Durable Power of Attorney form complies with Colorado law; however, witness, notary and other requirements vary form state to state. If you should move to another state, be sure to check that state’s requirements.
  • Your Medical Durable Power of Attorney should contain the following information:
    1. The name, address, and telephone number of the person you choose as your agent, and you second choice of agent to act if your first agent is unable to act for you.
    2. Any instructions about treatment you do or do not wish to receive such as surgery, chemotherapy, or life sustaining treatment such as artificial feeding, kidney dialysis, or breathing support, etc.