A Louisiana medical power of attorney is a legally enforceable document that designates a health care agent to make decisions on behalf of the document’s creator when they are unable to do so themselves. This document is inherently durable, only becoming effective once a physician or psychologist has determined the principal (creator) to be incapacitated. While of sound mind, the principal will be able to customize the power of attorney, narrowing or widening the scope of authority as they see fit.

Agent’s Duties (Behavioral Health) – RS 28:227

Laws – R.S. 40:1151.2(c)(1)

Signing Requirements (R.S. 40:1151.2(2)) – Two (2) witnesses

State Definition

Statute – RS 28:221(11)

 (11) “Representative” means a competent adult validly appointed under R.S. 28:223 to make behavioral health treatment decisions for a principal and also means an alternative representative.