Medical power of attorney

[woodturner]

I suspect that part of the problem is our proclivity to sue in our country.

I think that is the primary issue. Absent clear and legal directive to the contrary, a doctor exposes themselves to huge risk, both civil and in some cases criminal, if they don't do everything possible.

[vaking]

A distant relative of hers claims to have power of attorney, and is calling the shots. The patient has two daughters, and their call would be much different from how the other woman is handling the situation. There is a question as to whether or not the patient had the ability to give the power of attorney to anyone at all. It's quite possible this will wind up in the courts, and money is not a motive because she has nothing.
Ed

That is an interesting statement. I believe that primary purpose of POA is to be able to chose a person whom you trust to make decisions for you. The quote above may mean 2 things in my opinion. Either a distant relative somehow managed to manipulate a patient to sign a POA when she was already unable to make intelligent decisions or the old lady did not see things the same way as her daughters when she was of sound mind and had deliberately chosen somebody outside immediate family to protect her wishes.
I think this case is a good illustration that POA might not be a good solution either. If your immediate family does not respect your wishes - even having POA might not help.