When planning for future healthcare decisions, it’s important to understand the key documents that guide medical care if you're unable to speak for yourself. These documents ensure your wishes are respected and that the right people are making decisions on your behalf. Below are the most commonly used forms in Advance Care Planning. 

(Also known as: Healthcare Proxy, Medical Power of Attorney, Healthcare Power of Attorney, Healthcare Agent, Healthcare Surrogate, or Healthcare Attorney-in-fact) 

• Recommended for anyone aged 18 or older. 

• Names the person you trust to make medical decisions if you're unable to do so. 

• Allows your medical team to share information with your representative about your care but does not grant any financial or other legal authority—only the ability to make medical decisions. 

• Requirements vary by state, including who can serve as a witness and whether the form must be notarized. Each state also has rules about who becomes the default decision-maker if no representative is designated.

(Also known as: Advance Healthcare Directive, Personal Directive, Medical Directive, or Life-Prolonging Treatment Form) 

• For anyone aged 18 or older. 

• Designates a healthcare representative and then outlines your preferences for care in situations involving life-threatening conditions or medical emergencies (e.g., DNR orders, artificial nutrition, etc.). 

• State requirements may differ for witnesses or whether the form must be notarized.

(POLST stands for Physician or Provider Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment – Also known as: MOLST, MOST, POST, COLST, or TPOPP) 

• Specifically for individuals with serious or advanced illnesses. 

• Completed with a medical provider, this form serves as a medical order that outlines which treatments you do or do not want as you approach the end of life. Key decisions might include: 

• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) or Full Code 

• IV hydration 

• Artificial nutrition (feeding tubes) 

• In some states, a POLST form may be part of a living will, while in others it’s a separate document. It's essential to review all options with your healthcare provider to ensure the form reflects your preferences.

(Also known as: Power of Attorney, POA, Attorney-in-fact, Ordinary Power of Attorney, or General Power of Attorney) 

• Recommended for anyone aged 18 or older. 

• Designates the person who will manage your finances and make financial decisions if you are no longer able to do so. 

• Each state has specific requirements for witnesses and notarization, and often, a lawyer is involved in preparing this document. 

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring your medical care aligns with your wishes. Be sure to check your state’s specific requirements and take time to discuss your choices with both your healthcare provider and your designated representative.