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This Arizona advanced directive medical power of attorney document is created by an individual (the “principal”) in case they cannot communicate with medical staff. This situation can often arise due to conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease or as a result of recent surgery. A medical power of attorney may be revoked by completing a Revocation Form.
Standard Power of Attorney Forms – PDF
Signing Requirements
For a principal to sign, they must have either one (1) witness or a notary public present. However, the witness or notary cannot be the agent named in the advance directive, involved in providing healthcare to the principal, related by family, marriage, or adoption, or entitled to the principal’s estate.
Source: ARS § 36-3221(A)(3), ARS § 36-3221(C)
What happens if you don’t have an Advanced Directive in Arizona?
In Arizona, if you cannot speak for yourself and don’t have an Advance Directive or Medical Power of Attorney, the state has a specific order of priority for who can make healthcare decisions on your behalf. The hierarchy is as follows:
1. Spouse: The spouse is the primary decision-maker unless legally separated.
2. Adult Child: If there is more than one adult child, the healthcare provider must seek the consent of the majority who are reasonably available for consultation.
3. Parent: One or both parents can make decisions.
4. Domestic Partner: A domestic partner can decide if the patient is unmarried.
5. Sibling: A brother or sister of the patient can make decisions.
6. Close Friend: A close friend is defined as someone who has shown exceptional care and concern, is familiar with the patient’s healthcare views, and is willing and able to be involved in their care.
If no one from the above categories is available to make decisions, the physician can consult with an institutional ethics committee. If such a committee is unavailable, the physician may consult a second physician to make decisions.
Source: § 36-3231