Define: Health Care Proxy

A health care proxy is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

You can appoint any adult individual who is willing and capable of making medical decisions on your behalf. This can be a family member, friend, or even a trusted professional.

To create a health care proxy, you need to fill out a specific form provided by your state’s laws. This form typically requires your signature, the signature of your appointed proxy, and sometimes the signatures of witnesses or a notary public.

A health care proxy comes into effect when your attending physician determines that you are no longer able to make your own medical decisions. This determination is usually based on your inability to understand and communicate your treatment preferences.

Yes, you can revoke or change your health care proxy at any time, as long as you are still mentally competent. You can do this by creating a new health care proxy document or by notifying your appointed proxy and your healthcare providers in writing.

No, your health care proxy is legally obligated to make decisions that align with your known wishes or best interests. They cannot make decisions that go against your expressed preferences, religious beliefs, or values.

While some states allow for multiple health care proxies, it is generally recommended to appoint only one person to avoid potential conflicts or confusion. However, you can appoint alternate proxies in case your primary proxy is unable or unwilling to fulfill their role.

Yes, your health care proxy can make decisions about end-of-life care, including decisions about life-sustaining treatments, if you have not expressed your wishes in advance through a living will or other legal documents.

Yes, your health care proxy has the legal right to access your medical records in order to make informed decisions about your healthcare. However, they must still comply with privacy laws and maintain confidentiality.

No, a health care proxy only covers medical decisions. If you want someone to handle your financial affairs in the event of your incapacity, you would need to create a separate document, such as a power of attorney.