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An Iowa Power of Attorney is a document that an individual would use to legally convey their decision making authority to someone they trust. Individuals, referred to as Principals, have multiple reasons for needing to use this document. Because of this, power of attorney documents come in many different types which all work to serve many different purposes. In Iowa, the requirements for power of attorney documents concerning healthcare are covered by Chapter 144 of the Iowa Code which specifies that in order for a power of attorney document to be recognized, it must explicitly designate the appointed individual's powers (known as the Agent). Additionally, these statutes require the document to be dated, and signed by two (2) witnesses or be notarized by a Notary Public. Also, Iowa forbids, any signing witnesses to be an attending physician, and both witnesses may not be relatives.
In order to complete an Iowa Power of Attorney, the Principal will need to provide just a few pieces of information. The first piece of information that the Testator will need to provide is his or her first and last name, along with their complete address. Next, the Principal will need to appoint their Agent. In Iowa, their agent must be over the age of 18 and may not be the doctor in charge of their care. The Principal will need to provide their Agent's full name, address, and telephone number. Once the Agent is appointed, the Principal will then describe what powers are being conveyed. Additionally, these powers can be limited or broad, depending on what the Principal is comfortable with. Finally, the document will need to be dated, signed, and witnessed by two (witnesses) or notarized before it will take effect.