[PA] Can an individual holding a power of attorney, or a family member, legally override my Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order?

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EsquireChamp

Hey there! I'm an attorney with many years of experience. Just so you are aware, this platform is for legal information only. No attorney-client relationship is formed from our conversation.

I understand you're concerned about whether your power of attorney can go against your DNR form.

EsquireChamp

Thanks for confirming! What state or country are you in? Also, do you have a healthcare power of attorney or a general one?

EsquireChamp

 In Pennsylvania, a general power of attorney typically covers financial and legal matters — not medical decisions. A DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order is a medical directive and stands on its own.

A general POA does not have authority to override a properly executed DNR. Only a healthcare agent (under a healthcare power of attorney) can make medical decisions — and even then, they are legally required to follow your stated wishes.

EsquireChamp

 You don’t have to, but many people choose to appoint the same person for both roles. In Pennsylvania, healthcare decision-making authority must be specifically granted in a healthcare power of attorney document. A general POA alone does not automatically include that authority.

If you want someone to handle both financial and medical matters, you can either:

• Create a separate healthcare POA naming the same person, or
• Use a combined document that clearly grants both financial and healthcare powers.

EsquireChamp

In Pennsylvania, if your DNR is properly completed and valid, healthcare providers are legally required to follow it. (20 PA Cons Stat § 5487)

Family members, children, or loved ones cannot override your valid DNR simply because they disagree.

Even a healthcare agent cannot ignore your clearly stated wishes. Their legal duty is to follow your expressed instructions — including a DNR.

To make your wishes as strong and clear as possible, you should:

• Ensure the DNR form is properly executed under Pennsylvania law.
• Provide copies to your doctor and hospital.
• Consider completing a healthcare power of attorney and/or living will that clearly references your DNR wishes.
• Discuss your wishes openly with your family and your designated agent.

That combination makes it extremely difficult for anyone to challenge or interfere with your decision.