LPA/ACP/AMD

In Singapore, a lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint one or more persons to make decisions on their behalf should they become mentally incapacitated. This document ensures that the individual’s interests are protected even if they are unable to make decisions for themselves.

Who needs a lasting power of attorney?

A lasting power of attorney is recommended for anyone over the age of 21, especially for those who are getting older, have a history of medical conditions or illnesses, or are worried about losing their mental capacity due to an accident or illness. By creating an LPA, they can appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf, thereby ensuring their interests are safeguarded.

 Advance care planning is an essential component of healthcare that is often overlooked. In Singapore, there is an increasing need to promote advance care planning as the population ages, and chronic illnesses become more prevalent. Advance care planning is the process of making decisions about future healthcare and end-of-life care preferences. It involves discussing and documenting a person’s wishes, values, and beliefs concerning their medical treatment, should they become unable to communicate or make decisions for themselves. 

 In Singapore, individuals can also make an Advance Medical Directive (AMD), which is a legal document that allows individuals to refuse specific medical treatments in advance. The AMD is a legally binding document that must be signed by the individual in the presence of two witnesses, who must also sign the document. The AMD allows individuals to refuse life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial ventilation, dialysis, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The AMD must be registered with the Registrar of AMDs, and healthcare providers must be informed of its existence.