It can be easy to take your excellent health for granted. After all, even if you have never been seriously ill during your life, your luck eventually may run out. If an illness or injury makes it impossible for you to make your own health care decisions, you probably want someone you trust to advocate for you.
In Ohio, it is possible to create a durable power of attorney for health care. When doing so, you have an opportunity to choose someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. This power of attorney kicks in only after your incapacitation.
Your health care agent
According to Ohio law, just about any competent adult can be your health care agent. As long as you do not choose your doctor, a nursing home administrator or an employee of either, you probably have broad flexibility to pick the person you want.
Important qualities
As you may suspect, not everyone you know is likely to make an effective health care agent. Therefore, when you are choosing yours, it may be helpful to look for certain qualities. Among others, the qualities of a good health care agent include the following:
- Intelligence
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Grit
Remember, doctors and others may need to reach your health care agent quickly. By designating a health care agent who is reachable or otherwise available, you may improve your chances of receiving the medical care you need and want.
When you are selecting your health care agent, you probably want to consider your spouse, close relatives, friends and others. Ultimately, by giving the selection process the attention it deserves, you can choose the perfect person to be your health care agent.
