Five Wishes (power of attorney, mother)

[joni78]

Is there any downside to having the "Five Wishes" document over the standard healthcare power of attorney? It is allowable in our state, but my elderly mother's doctor was not familiar with it when he heard she had this in lieu of the HC POA.

Not to be confused with any financial or legal issues; all other formal necessary documents are in place. Just the healthcare directive is in question. Any feedback?

TIA

[Parnassia]

We used the Five Wishes document instead of a healthcare POA. The approach it takes is slightly different than a formal POA, but it covers the same ground. Less "legaleze" and impersonal and the questions tended to encourage discussion. It was accepted by the providers my dad was working with. Everyone had a copy of the completed document on hand.

[joni78]

Thanks Parnassia - very helpful

[branDcalf]

I have both a health care POA and the 5 Wishes. I have a document that is to guide my POA in making choices I want for my care.