Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care in Oncology

Abstract

Almost everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, but how many people do you know have a durable power of attorney for health care? Durable power of attorney for health care is a simple form that allows you to appoint whomever you trust to make health care decisions for yourself if you are deemed unable to do so. Durable power of attorney for health care, also known as DPOA-H, is a topic that can create some ambivalence within those working in the oncology field and those who have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis. The ambivalence comes from a worry that by bringing it to attention it implies you are dying. It is important that education around the topic of DPOA-H is provided to patients, especially those who may be unfamiliar with what it is and what it can do for them. I am proposing two different workshops, one for oncology staff and the other for oncology patients. Each allowing the opportunity to be better informed around the topic of DPOA-H. Durable Power of Attorney in Oncology - Capstone Poster