How It Works in Arizona
Under Arizona law, a healthcare directive takes effect when your physician says you cannot make or share healthcare decisions. Your directive tells the medical team what treatments you want or do not want. This removes that burden from your family.
Healthcare Directive vs. Medical Power of Attorney
These two documents work together but serve different purposes:
- Healthcare directive: States your specific treatment wishes
- Medical power of attorney: Names a person (your agent) to make decisions the directive does not cover
Most estate plans include both. The directive provides clear instructions. The medical power of attorney gives your agent authority for unexpected situations.
If you want a living will prepared as part of your Arizona plan, the service page that explains what it covers and how it pairs with a healthcare power of attorney is our living will and advance directive service.