Houston estate planning attorney Whitney L. Thompson (https://www.wthompsonlaw.com/should-you-obtain-a-medical-power-of-attorney-for-your-childs-health-care-decisions/) of The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson has released an informative article discussing whether obtaining a medical power of attorney (POA) is necessary for a child’s health care decisions. The article addresses the importance of having a POA for adult children and the considerations parents should keep in mind.
“Having a medical power of attorney is crucial when it comes to safeguarding your child’s well-being,” says Houston estate planning attorney Whitney L. Thompson. “It provides you with the legal authority to access critical medical information and make informed decisions on behalf of your adult child.”
In the article, the Houston estate planning attorney explains that once a child turns 18 in the state of Texas, parents no longer have the legal authority to make medical or financial decisions for them. However, if the child is in a severe accident, parents would still want to be able to obtain information about their condition and consent to medical treatments.
Whitney L. Thompson highlights the importance of obtaining a POA, especially because of the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996), which legally obligates health care professionals to withhold medical information unless the child signs a HIPAA authorization naming the parent as a recipient.
The article also touches upon what happens if a child does not have anyone as a POA. In such cases, Texas law dictates that another adult or group of adults can make medical decisions for the incapacitated child, with a specific order of priority.
Temporary medical power of attorney is another topic discussed in the article. This legal document empowers another individual to make medical decisions on behalf of the person creating the POA in instances where the principal is unable to do so due to physical or mental incapacity. It is essential to consult with an attorney familiar with Texas law to ensure that the temporary medical power of attorney is drafted and executed correctly, meeting specific needs and circumstances.
For those seeking to become their child’s POA, the article stresses the importance of preparing documents correctly so that every applicable institution, such as hospitals or clinics, will accept them. Whitney L. Thompson advises, “Do not gamble with your child’s life or health. Schedule a consultation with a skilled attorney.”
In light of these essential considerations, The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson can provide guidance and assistance in obtaining a medical power of attorney for an adult child, ensuring peace of mind and the ability to make informed decisions on their behalf.
About The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson:
The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson is a Houston-based legal firm with a focus on estate planning, trusts, and probate law. With a commitment to providing personalized and professional legal services, the firm aims to help clients navigate complex legal matters with confidence and ease.
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Media ContactCompany Name: The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson, PLLCContact Person: Whitney L. ThompsonEmail: Send EmailPhone: (281) 214-0173Address:4201 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W Suite 219, Box #116B City: HoustonState: Texas 77068Country: United StatesWebsite: https://www.wthompsonlaw.com/
