Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Agribusiness Practice Test

What is a key distinction of a living will compared to a Power of Attorney?

1. It appoints someone to manage finances

2. It specifies medical treatment preferences

3. It must be witnessed

4. It is filed with a court

The correct answer is: It specifies medical treatment preferences

A living will serves as a crucial document that outlines an individual's specific medical treatment preferences in situations where they are unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacitation. This can include directives about life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and other critical health care decisions. The purpose of a living will is to ensure that healthcare providers follow the patient's wishes regarding medical care, thereby providing clarity and guidance during difficult times. In contrast, a Power of Attorney is intended to appoint an individual to manage financial and legal matters on behalf of another person. While both documents are important for healthcare and estate planning, the living will specifically focuses on medical decisions, making it vital for individuals who desire to articulate their preferences regarding end-of-life care and other medical interventions. The distinctions related to witnessing and court filings apply to legal validity and may vary by jurisdiction; however, they do not specifically define the fundamental purpose of a living will compared to a Power of Attorney. Thus, the emphasis on specifying medical treatment preferences makes the living will a vital tool in health care decision-making.