The Health Care Proxy

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Working Through the Difficult Decisions

The Health Care Proxy is the document that appoints an agent to make health care decisions when a person is unable to make decisions for themselves.

The principal appoints an agent he or she trusts to follow his or her wishes, especially the complicated life-ending decisions.

It is important that the agent is faithful to that person’s wishes and will follow them. Most agents selected have some connection to the medical field, although that is not mandatory.

Smiling doctor at the clinic giving a handshake to his patient

How the Process Works

The Health Care Proxy should be specific enough to provide a framework, but should not be so limiting as to create difficulties.

Everyone needs a Health Care Proxy, and copies should be provided to the agent(s) and the primary-care physician, to be included as part of the person’s medical records.

Steven W. Barnstead is admitted to practice in all New York state courts and is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Chemung County Bar Association. Call 607-734-1216 to schedule your consultation.