In the state of Victoria, a medical treatment decision maker is someone who is appointed to make medical treatment decisions on behalf of a person who is unable to make these decisions for themselves. This person can be a family member, friend, or a professional guardian.
The medical treatment decision maker is required to make decisions that are consistent with the person’s preferences and values, and to consult with healthcare providers to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the person.
The medical treatment decision maker has the authority to make decisions about any medical treatment or procedure, including life-sustaining treatment, and their decisions override any other person’s decisions, unless a person has a valid and applicable enduring power of attorney for medical treatment.
The appointment of a medical treatment decision maker can provide peace of mind to the person and their loved ones, knowing that medical treatment decisions will be made in accordance with their wishes, even if they are unable to make these decisions for themselves.
Geelong Legal can offer guidance and advice on the appointment of medical treatment decision makers and their legal responsibilities and powers. Our Geelong estate planning lawyers can help you create and review medical treatment decision maker documents that accurately reflect your wishes and meet all legal requirements.
