Choosing a Medical Power of Attorney in Alaska

Anchorage residents can designate a specific individual to make health care decisions on their behalf by executing a medical power of attorney.

The legal document, also known as a health care surrogate or proxy, grants the named person authority to determine treatment options if the patient cannot speak for themselves.

Sam Cradduck, a gerontologist, explained that the designated agent controls major medical choices.

“They can decide whether you’re going to have surgery,” Cradduck said. “They can decide whether or not you’re going to go into a skilled facility in a rehab after a surgery. They can decide if you’re going to go into an assisted living. They can decide if you’re going to be at home, who your caregivers are going to be.”

Cradduck advised that the chosen person must understand the patient's wishes and remain objective during critical situations.

“You need to know that this person can advocate for your wishes, not for their heart’s desire,” she said.

Amy O’Rourke, an aging expert, cautioned that marriage does not automatically grant a spouse the legal right to make medical decisions.

“Don’t just think because you have a family relationship that you’re going to have the power to make these decisions,” O’Rourke said.

She noted that hospitals may turn away a spouse who lacks the proper documentation, depending on state laws.

Katherine Ambrose, an aging well coach, emphasized the importance of keeping the physical document accessible.

Hospitals are not required to accept verbal claims of authority without the paper in hand, Ambrose said.

“This needs to be something that a paramedic can find. Might be on your fridge,” Ambrose said. “It is not something to have locked away in a safe deposit box. It needs to be with you.”', "Ambrose compared selecting an agent to picking a designated driver before a party. The person must have the integrity to stand up to family members who may dispute the patient's wishes during a crisis.", "She suggested naming a backup agent in case the primary person is unavailable. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, clarified that the document does not remove the patient's rights as long as they have mental capacity.",