The Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), under the Mental Capacity Act 2008, came into effect in Singapore on March 2010. as more people become aware of the LPA and the demand for making one rises, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable about it, in order to provide sound and timely advice to the public.

This study aims to assess the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of doctors and medical social workers (MSWs) in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, with regards to the making of an LPA.

209 structured questionnaires were distributed and analyzed across seven medical and surgical disciplines between January-April 2011.

Only 8.89% of surgeons, 29.3% of physicians and 29.2% of MSWs have ever encountered an LPA before. 51% of respondents felt that they knew little or nothing at all about the LPA. Only 67% knew the difference between an LPA and an Advanced Medical Directive (AMD). Only 26% were aware of the information sources available for the making of an LPA.

The results of the study revealed limited knowledge and inconsistent attitudes. This resulted in misconceptions, leading to non-standard practices amongst doctors and medical social workers surveyed with regards to the LPA document, in Singapore. It is crucial to address and rectify this deficiency in knowledge. Hopefully in time, this will translate to better practices and the public would be more comfortable approaching their doctors for advice regarding creating a Lasting Power of Attorney for themselves and their loved ones.