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Medical Treatment Decision Maker

A Medical Treatment Decision Maker (MTDM) appointment allows you to legally nominate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you lose decision-making capacity. This ensures your healthcare wishes are respected and followed when you are unable to communicate or make decisions yourself.

What It Covers

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An appointed Medical Treatment Decision Maker may:

  • Consent to or refuse medical treatment

  • Make decisions about surgery, medication, and ongoing care

  • Make end-of-life treatment decisions

  • Access medical records and relevant health information

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The appointment only takes effect if you lose decision-making capacity and a registered health practitioner confirms this.

Why It Is Important

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  • Prevents reliance on default decision-makers

  • Reduces risk of family disputes

  • Avoids delays in urgent medical decisions

  • Ensures someone you trust speaks on your behalf

Difference from an Enduring Power of Attorney

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  • Covers medical decisions only

  • Does not cover financial or legal matters

  • Often prepared together with an Enduring Power of Attorney as part of broader estate planning

Who Should Have One

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  • All adults over 18

  • Individuals with health conditions

  • Parents and carers

  • Anyone wanting control over future healthcare decisions

Legal Considerations

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  • You may revoke or change the appointment while you have capacity

  • The decision maker must act in your best interests

  • Improperly prepared documents may be invalid or challenged

How We Can Help

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  • Personalised legal advice

  • Guidance in selecting an appropriate decision maker

  • Preparation of legally compliant documentation

  • Capacity and execution compliance

  • Structuring appointments to minimise disputes

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