Key Takeaways

Allowing someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to is what a health care proxy entails. You can choose any trusted adult as your proxy, even if they are not a relative. Typically, the document becomes effective when a doctor determines you lack the mental capacity to make decisions.

Understanding Health Care Proxies

A health care proxy is a legal document that specifies who should make decisions about your medical care if you are unable to do so yourself. This person may also be referred to as a health care surrogate or durable medical power of attorney. The document becomes necessary when someone is unconscious, unable to communicate, or mentally incapable of making informed decisions.

It is not required to name a spouse or adult children as your proxy. You can choose anyone you trust, even if they are not a family member. The rules for when the document takes effect are outlined within the document itself, typically when a physician determines you cannot make decisions on your own.

Health Care Proxy vs. Living Will

A health care proxy designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf, while a living will provides specific instructions for your care if you are unable to communicate. Both are advance directives that guide your medical care if you are unable to express your wishes. It is recommended to have both, as a living will may not cover every scenario.

Getting a Health Care Proxy

It is important to designate a health care proxy for unforeseen circumstances, no matter your age or medical condition. Consider who you trust to make difficult decisions quickly and ensure they understand your wishes. Several rules apply to who can serve as a health care proxy, depending on the state you reside in.