Every Wisconsinite now has a free, simple way to protect their medical wishes. Today, LIFT Wisconsin and the Center for Patient Partnerships at UW-Madison (CPP) launch the Power of Attorney for Healthcare (POAHC) module inside our Legal Tune Up Tool — the first free, complete, one-stop online tool in the country to create a power of attorney for healthcare.
What is a Power of Attorney for Healthcare (POAHC)?
A POAHC is a legal document that names a person you trust — your “agent” — to make healthcare decisions for you if you are ever too sick or hurt to make them yourself. It doesn’t have to be a family member. It ensures that if you are unconscious or unable to communicate, medical decisions are not delayed and not made without guidance on your wishes.
Only 37% of Americans have a power of attorney for healthcare — which means most families are left guessing, arguing, or going to court during a medical emergency.
Why this matters in Wisconsin right now
Wisconsin law does not define a default decision-maker for hospitalized patients who can’t speak for themselves. The state’s “next-of-kin” law (WI Act 115, which took effect June 1, 2026) helps close part of that gap — but it isn’t enough for the thousands of Wisconsinites without a POAHC, and many health law experts have raised concerns about the lack of patient protections when the next-of-kin law is used. That’s why advocates still encourage everyone to complete a POAHC of their own.
This was built because of a real need. Several years ago, a caregiver called CPP in a panic: their mother had suffered a stroke, was hospitalized and unconscious, and the family couldn’t agree on treatment. With no POAHC in place, the only option was a court to appoint a guardian. That stressful ordeal could have been avoided with one document — and now every Wisconsinite can create one for free from the comfort of their own home.
Medical professionals can deliver the highest standard of care when individuals have clearly recorded their preferences and designated a trusted advocate. As Dr. Heather Certain, a hospital medical specialist, explains: “Having a POAHC is invaluable to the healthcare team, as it allows us to honor your wishes and provide the most appropriate treatment for you in critical situations.”
Free. Secure. Built by Attorneys.
The new POAHC module is:
- ✅ Completely free — no attorney fees, no paywall
- ✅ Built by attorneys — built by attorneys in response to real community need
- ✅ Tech-guided, not AI-assisted — clear, step-by-step guidance you can trust
- ✅ Private and secure — uses no public data sets; your personalized information stays in a secure system
The tool walks you through picking someone you trust, documenting your wishes and values, and completing the paperwork all online.
How to create your POAHC in 3 steps
- Go to legaltuneup.org, enter a few pieces of information, and select the Power of Attorney for Healthcare module.
- Choose your agent and answer simple questions about your wishes and values.
- Sign and share your completed directive with your agent, family, and doctor.
BUTTON: START NOW
POAHC FAQ
Does a POAHC have to be a family member?
No. Your agent can be anyone you trust to honor your wishes.
Is the Legal Tune Up Tool really free?
Yes. We built this tool so every Wisconsinite — not just those who can afford an attorney — can protect their wishes in case the worst happens.
Do I still need a POAHC if Wisconsin has a next-of-kin law?
Yes. The next-of-kin law has gaps and fewer protections for patients. A POAHC is the only way to make sure the person you choose speaks with your voice.
Is my information safe?
Yes. Your information is entered into a secure system.
Peace of mind, wishes protected, guided care
Everyone deserves peace of mind during a medical emergency. Until now, ensuring your wishes were honored required finding the confusing forms online or affording an attorney. Not anymore.
Questions? Download our free POAHC guides and FAQ sheets, or contact us.