Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri

Power of attorney over health

If one child has power of attorney over my Mom's health, what are her responsibilities keeping the rest of the family in the loop. Including doctor appointments and treatment. (Cancer) I live out of town and can't get any information about my Mom's visits to the doctor.


Asked on 7/21/09, 12:49 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Jennifer Rench J. Rench Law Firm, LLC | St. Louis Divorce and Mediation

Re: Power of attorney over health

Since you said "what are her responsibilities" I'll take it that your sister has power of attorney. Power of attorney doesn't create an obligation for your sister to act in and of itself. The power of the document is that it gives your sister authoirty to act on behalf of your mother in whatever ways are described in the document. That is why she is able to obtain medical information because she is acting on behalf of your mother. This does not mean that she is required to act, but only that she is authorized to act.

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Answered on 7/21/09, 1:30 pm
Sue Roberts-Kurpis, Esq. Law Office of Sue Roberts-Kurpis

Re: Power of attorney over health

The holder of a POA-HC has no responsibility to any other member of the family to keep them informed of anything. It may be your mother's wishes that you not be informed. Depending on the state of your mother's health, you may want to talk to your mother directly. Frankly, I'm not sure why you think you are entitled to information about your Mom's doctors visits or what purpose is served by giving you this information.

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Answered on 7/21/09, 1:47 pm


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