Your loved on should have an advanced health care directive naming you (or someone) to act on his/her behalf regarding medical decisions. This is sometimes called Medical Proxy or Medical power of attorney.
The durable POA authorizes you to make financial and legal decisions (under the circumstances designated in the document.) It does not authorize you to make medical decisions. Hence, both documents are important.
The durable POA authorizes you to make financial and legal decisions (under the circumstances designated in the document.) It does not authorize you to make medical decisions. Hence, both documents are important.