- 1). Draft the durable power of attorney in a word-processing program. A typewritten document will allow for easier understanding and acceptance. Title the document "Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care." Write your full name and indicate that you authorize and appoint an agent to make your health-care decisions when you are incapacitated. Write down the full name, address and telephone number of the health-care agent. State if you wish to extend the agent's power to when you are not incapacitated.
- 2). Write within the power of attorney document that it revokes any prior power of attorney documents relating to health care. Specifically state the scope of the agent's power. For example, you may wish to reference that the agent has the power to determine whether you will be removed from life support. A general statement that the agent may make any health care decisions for you is, however, likely sufficient.
- 3). Indicate an alternate agent within your power of attorney in case the agent is no longer willing to serve, or himself becomes incapacitated or dies. Include the address and telephone number of the alternate agent. Print, sign and date the power of attorney. Ask two witnesses that are financially disinterested and witnessed your signature to sign the power of attorney. Some states require that the power of attorney be notarized. Consult an attorney regarding notarization. If necessary, you must sign the power of attorney in front of a notary public.
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