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As we get older, it becomes increasingly important to make sure our healthcare wishes are respected, especially when we might not be able to voice them ourselves. A healthcare proxy is an essential tool that assures that someone you trust will make medical decisions for you or a loved one if you can’t. This isn’t just for serious illnesses; it’s also for those times you might be temporarily unable to make decisions, like during surgery or after an accident. Setting up a healthcare proxy gives you and your family peace of mind and a sense of control during vulnerable times.

What is a Healthcare Proxy?

A healthcare proxy, sometimes called a medical power of attorney, is a legal document that lets you appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re incapacitated. This person becomes your agent and will advocate for you in medical settings, ensuring your healthcare reflects your values and preferences.

Your agent will have the authority to talk with your doctors, look over your medical records, and make decisions about treatments you should or shouldn’t receive based on what they know about your wishes and best interests.

Choosing Your Proxy

Picking a healthcare proxy is a big decision. You’ll want someone you can trust completely—someone who understands your values and can handle making tough calls under pressure. This could be your spouse, a close friend, an adult child, or another family member.

Make sure to have a detailed discussion with them to ensure they’re willing and prepared to take on this role. Whoever you choose should be over 18 and ready to shoulder the responsibility. Each state has its own specific rules, but these are the general requirements.

Key Considerations

Choosing the right person for your healthcare proxy is crucial. Here are some things to consider:

• Do they share your views on medical care, and are they aware of your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment and end-of-life care?
• Can they make hard decisions under stress? Will they be able to advocate for your preferences, even if they differ from those of others involved in your care?
• Are they good at communicating clearly with doctors and other medical professionals?
• Are they readily available? Your proxy should be someone who can easily be contacted and present when needed.

What Decisions Can a Healthcare Proxy Make?

Your proxy can make various medical decisions for you, such as:

• Accepting or refusing medical treatments, including surgeries and medications.
• Choosing between different treatment options.
• Making calls on life-sustaining measures like artificial hydration, mechanical ventilation, and CPR.
• Accessing your medical records to make informed decisions.
• Handling your end-of-life care arrangements.

Making Your Choice Official

To ensure your healthcare proxy is effective, you need to:

• Write down your wishes in a straightforward document that meets your state’s legal requirements.
• Sign the document in front of witnesses or a notary, depending on what your state requires.
• Give copies of the signed document to your proxy, your doctor, and any other relevant healthcare providers.

Once Everything’s Set

After setting up your healthcare proxy:

• Keep the lines of communication open with your proxy. Discuss your medical preferences in detail.
• Share any other advance care planning documents like a Living Will with your proxy.
• Regularly review and update your documents to reflect any changes in your wishes or personal circumstances.

Planning Ahead

Having a healthcare proxy is a key part of planning for future medical care. It ensures you stay in control of your medical decisions, even if you can’t make them yourself. It also relieves your loved ones from making these difficult decisions without guidance.

If you’re looking to set up a healthcare proxy and need some guidance, Waypoint Legal is here to help. Our team specializes in elder law and can assist you in ensuring your healthcare proxy setup is thorough and legally sound. Reach out to set up a consultation and start securing your healthcare future.