Doctors, elder abuse, and enduring powers of attorney Matthews, Frances
Material type:
- 1175-8716
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Vine library | Online | Available | ON12060108 |
New Zealand Medical Journal 117(1202), 24 September 2004
This article discusses some of the shortcomings in the legislation contained in Part IX of the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act (1988), and the appropriate course of action for those who think that attorneys are misusing their powers and failing to act in the best interests of incapacitated patients. This Act is used to protect vulnerable adults who are unable to make their own decisions about welfare and property matters. It is posited that there is widespread ignorance among doctors and other professionals dealing with incapacitated patients, about the scope and nature of powers granted when an enduring power of attorney is donated. Suggestions are made for steps that doctors can take when dealing with those who have been granted an enduring power of attorney by their patients.