What is the difference between a Healthcare Power of Attorney and a Durable General Power of Attorney?

A healthcare power of attorney and a durable general power of attorney (also called financial power of attorney) are both legal documents that allow someone to make decisions for you if you’re unable to make them for yourself.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the differences in each document:

1. Healthcare Power of Attorney (HCPOA)

What it covers:

• Medical decisions only

What it lets someone do:

• Speak with doctors and make medical decisions if you’re unconscious or mentally incapacitated;
• Consent to or refuse treatment;
• Decide course of action regarding surgeries, medications, and end-of-life care;
• Move you between hospitals, nursing homes, or hospice care.

When it takes effect:

• Usually only if you’re unable to make your own medical decisions (due to illness, unconsciousness, etc.)

Who it’s for:

• Anyone who wants to make sure a trusted person is in charge of their medical care decisions, especially if they become seriously ill

2. Durable General Power of Attorney (DGPOA)

What it covers:

• Financial and legal matters — not healthcare

What it lets someone do:

• Access your bank accounts;
• Pay bills and file taxes;
• Sign contracts or leases on your behalf;
• Manage real estate or investments;
• Handle government benefits like Social Security or VA.

Durable means:

• It remains valid even if you become incapacitated

When it takes effect:

• You can choose:
  • Immediately upon signing
  • Only if you become incapacitated (this version is called a “springing” power of attorney)

Key Differences at a Glance

Why You Usually Need Both

Most estate planners recommend having both documents:

• One to manage your health;
• One to manage your money.