Attorney-Approved Medical Power of Attorney Form for Missouri State

Understanding the Missouri Medical Power of Attorney form is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here’s a list of ten common misunderstandings:

1. It only applies to end-of-life decisions. Many people think a Medical Power of Attorney is only for situations where someone is near death. In reality, it can be used anytime a person is unable to make their own medical decisions.
2. It can only be created by a lawyer. While legal assistance can be helpful, individuals can fill out the form themselves. It’s important to ensure it meets state requirements, but legal counsel is not mandatory.
3. Once signed, it cannot be changed. This is not true. You can revoke or update your Medical Power of Attorney at any time, as long as you are mentally competent.
4. It is the same as a Living Will. Although both documents deal with medical decisions, a Living Will specifies your wishes about medical treatment, while a Medical Power of Attorney designates someone to make decisions on your behalf.
5. It is only for older adults. People of all ages can benefit from having a Medical Power of Attorney. Accidents or unexpected health issues can happen at any age.
6. Family members automatically have the right to make decisions. Without a Medical Power of Attorney, family members may not have the legal authority to make decisions for you. It’s best to designate someone formally.
7. It only works in Missouri. While the form is specific to Missouri, if you travel or move, it’s wise to check the laws in other states. Some states honor out-of-state documents, but it’s not guaranteed.
8. It must be notarized to be valid. In Missouri, a Medical Power of Attorney does not require notarization. However, it must be signed by you and witnessed by two individuals.
9. Only one person can be appointed. You can appoint multiple agents to act together or designate a primary agent with a backup in case the first is unavailable.
10. It is a one-time document. The Medical Power of Attorney remains in effect until revoked or until you regain the ability to make decisions. It’s important to review it regularly to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

Being informed about these misconceptions can help individuals make better decisions regarding their healthcare and ensure their wishes are respected.

When filling out the Missouri Medical Power of Attorney form, it’s important to approach the task carefully. Here are ten things you should and shouldn't do.

• Do read the entire form thoroughly before starting.
• Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure accuracy.
• Do clearly identify your chosen agent and their contact information.
• Don't select someone who may not be able to fulfill the role due to distance or availability.
• Do discuss your wishes and preferences with your agent beforehand.
• Don't assume your agent knows your medical preferences without a conversation.
• Do sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public.
• Don't forget to have witnesses present if required by the form.
• Do keep copies of the completed form for yourself and your agent.
• Don't overlook updating the document if your wishes or circumstances change.

• Durable Power of Attorney: This document allows an individual to appoint someone to make financial and legal decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. Like the Medical Power of Attorney, it remains effective even if the person becomes unable to make decisions.
• Gift Deed: To facilitate the transfer of property without monetary exchange, you can utilize a properly executed Gift Deed form that ensures the transaction is legally recognized and protects both parties involved.
• Living Will: A Living Will outlines an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate their preferences. While a Medical Power of Attorney designates someone to make those decisions, a Living Will specifies what those decisions should be.
• Health Care Proxy: Similar to a Medical Power of Attorney, a Health Care Proxy designates a person to make medical decisions on behalf of someone else. The key difference lies in how each document is structured and the specific powers granted, but both serve the purpose of ensuring that medical decisions align with the patient's wishes.
• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR order is a specific type of medical directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if a patient's heart stops. While it does not appoint someone to make decisions, it is similar in that it conveys the patient's wishes regarding medical treatment.