What do medical powers of attorney cover?
In a medical emergency, doctors do not need to get consent for your treatment. However, in a non-emergency situation, doctors will often ask for your consent prior to treating you. An ‘enduring power of attorney (medical treatment)’ will allow you to appoint someone to make medical decisions when you are no longer capable of making such decisions personally. You may appoint anyone you like. It is important to note that an enduring power of attorney (medical treatment) does not permit your attorney to refuse you reasonable medical procedures for the relief of pain, suffering and discomfort or the reasonable provision of food and water. Although your attorney can refuse other forms of treatment. You should also know that the decision of your attorney may be overridden by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal or the equivalent state board or tribunal under certain circumstances.
