🩺 Healthcare Directives Explained: What Doctors Need to Know (Personally & Professionally)
As a healthcare provider, you’ve probably discussed advance directives with patients. But here’s a question many doctors haven’t asked themselves:
Do YOU have your own healthcare directive in place?
Whether you're a physician, nurse practitioner, therapist, or administrator, having the right documents in place is crucial—not just for your patients, but for your own protection.
This guide explains what healthcare directives are, how they work under Arizona law, and why every healthcare professional should have them—for both personal peace of mind and professional preparedness.
✅ What Is a Healthcare Directive?
A healthcare directive—also called an advance directive—is a legal document that allows you to:
Name someone to make medical decisions if you become incapacitated
Express your wishes about end-of-life care
Guide your loved ones and medical team in a health crisis
In Arizona, this generally includes:
A Medical Power of Attorney
A Living Will
A HIPAA Authorization
(Optional) A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
Together, these documents ensure that your medical treatment aligns with your values—especially if you can’t speak for yourself.
👨⚕️ Why Doctors and Medical Professionals Need Their Own Directive
You’re trained to care for others—but you’re not immune to unexpected illness or injury. Without a healthcare directive:
No one may be legally authorized to speak for you
Hospital staff may delay treatment while seeking court approval
Family members could argue over what you would’ve wanted
The care you receive might conflict with your personal beliefs
Advance planning isn’t morbid—it’s a sign of responsibility and clarity.
🔍 Breakdown: The 4 Core Healthcare Directive Documents
1. Medical Power of Attorney (POA)
This document lets you appoint someone—your “agent”—to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become unable to.
Key Features:
Effective only when you are incapacitated
Can be broad or limited in scope
Agent must act in your best interest and according to your known wishes
📌 In Arizona, this is separate from a financial power of attorney.
2. Living Will
Outlines your preferences for end-of-life treatment, such as:
Artificial ventilation
Tube feeding
Pain management
Organ donation
📌 Gives your agent and providers guidance about how you want to be cared for in terminal or irreversible conditions.
3. HIPAA Authorization
Gives named individuals the legal right to:
Access your medical records
Speak with your healthcare providers
Coordinate your care and insurance claims
Without it, even your spouse or adult children may be blocked from accessing key information.
4. (Optional) Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
Used in limited cases, a DNR tells EMS and hospital staff not to perform CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
Not the same as a living will—it’s a separate, doctor-signed form used in active care settings.
⚠️ What Happens Without These Documents?
A court may need to appoint a guardian to make decisions
Loved ones may not agree—or may not be able to act at all
Treatment may be delayed or unwanted
You lose control over your care, even if your wishes were known informally
💼 Professional Use: Talking to Your Patients
As a healthcare professional, having your own directive also:
Gives you credibility when encouraging patients to create theirs
Helps your team recognize the importance of advance care planning
Prepares your practice or staff in the event of your emergency
“I’ve done it myself” is more persuasive than “You should do this.”
🧠 Final Thoughts
Healthcare directives aren’t just for elderly patients or ICU cases—they’re for everyone, especially those who understand the healthcare system best.
Whether you’re a solo practitioner, group provider, or just starting your medical career, the best time to set up your healthcare directive is now—before you need it.
Need help drafting yours or creating a full estate plan? Let’s make sure you and your loved ones are protected—on both sides of the stethoscope.
Hurley Law Group
Estate & Business Planning for Healthcare Professionals
📞 308-383-1867
🌐 hurleylawgroup.com
✉️ eric@hurleylawgroup.com