Living Wills and Health Care Directives in Arizona

The documents that speak when you can’t

If an accident or illness left you unable to communicate, your family would face hard medical decisions without knowing what you’d want. Arizona’s health care directives prevent that by putting your wishes—and your chosen decision-maker—in writing, in advance.

Health care power of attorney

A health care power of attorney names an agent to make medical decisions for you if you cannot make them yourself. Your agent can speak with doctors, weigh treatment options, and choose care that reflects your values. Pick someone level-headed who will honor your wishes, even under pressure.

Living will

A living will records your preferences about end-of-life care—such as life support, artificial nutrition, and comfort care—so your agent and doctors follow your instructions rather than their best guess. It lifts the heaviest decisions off your family’s shoulders.

Mental health care power of attorney

Arizona also recognizes a mental health care power of attorney, which lets your agent make certain mental health treatment decisions if you become unable to. Depending on your circumstances, it can be worth including.

Putting it together

• Name an agent you trust, plus a backup.
• Talk with them about your values and wishes.
• Give copies to your agent and your doctor, and keep one accessible.
• Review the documents after major life changes.

These directives are a small effort now that spares your family enormous uncertainty later.