Description
What This Document Does
A Medical Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person—called your agent—to make healthcare decisions for you if you cannot make them yourself. Unlike an Advance Directive, which gives doctors your written treatment preferences, this document ensures someone you trust can speak for you when medical situations aren’t black and white.
In Texas, doctors will always listen to you as long as you’re able to communicate. But if you are unconscious, confused, or too ill to decide, your agent steps in immediately. Without this document, important medical choices may fall to people you wouldn’t have chosen—or to a court.
What You’ll Need to Complete It
To prepare your Medical Power of Attorney, gather:
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Your full legal name, date of birth, and address
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The name, address, and phone number of your chosen agent (and an alternate, if you wish)
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Any specific limits on your agent’s authority (for example, decisions about psychiatric care or life support)
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Contact information for your primary doctor (optional, but recommended)
You don’t have to worry about covering every scenario—the law gives your agent broad authority to act in your best interest, guided by your conversations and values.
How to Make It Official in Texas
In Texas, a Medical Power of Attorney must be:
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Signed in front of two qualified witnesses, OR
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Signed in front of a notary public
Like with the Advance Directive, you only need one method, not both. Certain people—such as your doctor, hospital staff, or anyone who could inherit from you—cannot serve as witnesses.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Emergencies happen without warning. If you don’t have a Medical Power of Attorney, your loved ones may be shut out of critical decisions or left fighting over what’s best for you. Choosing your agent now ensures your voice is heard, even when you can’t speak.
Protect yourself and your family by putting your wishes in writing today.
