1. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), a power of attorney is effective on the date the power of attorney is signed in accordance with section 1(a)(4) of this chapter.

2. (b) A power of attorney may:

   1. (1) specify the date on which the power will become effective; or
   2. (2) become effective upon the occurrence of an event.

3. (c) If a power of attorney becomes effective upon the principal's incapacity and:

   1. (1) the principal has not authorized a person to determine whether the principal is incapacitated; or

   2. (2) the person authorized is unable or unwilling to make the determination;

      the power of attorney becomes effective upon a determination that the principal is incapacitated that is set forth in a writing or other record by a physician, licensed psychologist, or judge.

4. (d) A person authorized by the principal in the power of attorney to determine that the principal is incapacitated may:

   1. (1) act as the principal's personal representative under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) and any rules or regulations issued under that act; and
   2. (2) obtain access to the principal's health care information and communicate with the principal's health care provider.

As added by P.L.149-1991, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.101-2008, SEC.10; P.L.143-2009, SEC.27; P.L.185-2021, SEC.23.