Power of Attorney
Condell Hospice Legal Assistance Center

Health care power of attorney is a document you sign that names another person, called your "agent," to make health care decisions for you if you are unable to do so. Any competent person at least 18 years old may create and sign a health care power of attorney. You don't need a lawyer to complete this document.

Your "agent" can be any person who is at least 18 years old and is able to understand and decide about health care matters. However, no physician, nurse, or other health care provider who is giving you treatment may act as your health care agent. Most people choose a trusted relative or friend.

What happens if the person I appoint dies or is not able to serve as my agent?

You may name successor agents to step in and make decisions if your first choice is not able to act. However, you may not have more than one person serving as your agent. If you are divorced from your spouse and you no longer wish your ex-spouse to have authority to act under the health care power of attorney, you should attempt to destroy all copies of the power of attorney.

Will my agent be held liable for my health care costs?

No, your agent will not be held personally responsible for the cost of health care services and treatment that he or she arranges.

How do I create a health care power of attorney?

The easiest way is to complete and sign the Illinois Statutory Short Form Power of Attorney for Health Care. One witness must also sign the form. Call your attorney or one of the following:

Patient Representative - Condell Medical Center (847) 990-5443

The Illinois Department On Aging, (1-800-252-8966)

The Illinois Attorney General (1-800-252-2518)

What powers do I give to my agent by completing this form?

After the power of attorney for health care goes into effect, your agent may make any health care decision that you could make if you were able to do so. However, you can limit your agent's powers or give your agent special instructions by clearly stating them in your power of attorney.

Talk personally with your agent and make sure he or she clearly understands your wishes about life-sustaining treatment.


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