Health care proxies are not just for those who are sick. Many people have them "just in case" something happens. These legally designated individuals--or agents--become your voice should the time come when you are unable to make an informed, competent decision concerning your medical treatment. The authority bestowed on your health care proxy includes deciding whether or not to provide or continue life-sustaining measures as well as what medical means should be used to diagnose and treat your condition.
Function
Appointing a health care proxy requires filling out a Health Care Proxy form. This form can be found online by searching for "health care proxy" in your particular state. Most hospitals and physicians offices can also provide this form. Ensure that your wishes are followed by including any specific medical treatments or actions you would and would not want implemented on the form. Your health care proxy is the doctor's "go-to" person when it comes to making decisions about your medical care, so the more that person knows about your wishes, the better. Your form's special instructions also should include any restrictions placed on your health care proxy and when your proxy's authority takes effect. Although an attorney is not required to complete the form, you and your health care "agent" must sign the health care proxy form before a notary public and two witnesses.
Identification
A health care proxy must be at least 18 years old, be mentally fit, possess good judgment and be trustworthy. When identifying a health care agent, your first consideration should be a family member or close friend. These candidates are choices, because in most cases they know your stance on issues, such as artificial nutrition, hydration and resuscitation. You also need to designate an alternate agent who can fulfill the responsibility if your primary agent cannot.
Features
Health care proxy forms are slightly different for each state, as are the ready-made forms found online. They all, however, must solicit the same basic information about the prospective designee. That includes the name and legal address of the agent, as well as an alternate agent; the agent's duration; any particular directives that may increase or decrease your health care proxy's responsibilities; your name, signature and the signing date; and any tissue and/or organ donation wishes.
Benefits
The greatest benefit to appointing a health care proxy is peace of mind. This is especially true if your familial relationships are strained or you have no living family members. Having a health care agent also keeps legal battles at bay. Once your wishes regarding your health care and end-of-life issues, such as feeding tubes or other life-sustaining measures, are in writing, it is your health care proxy's job to see that they are carried out.
Warning
Keep your signed and notarized health care proxy form in a safe, easily accessible place. Give a copy of your form to all your health care providers, and ask that a copy be included with your medical records. Your health care proxy, your spouse and other close family members and friends also should get copies. Check with your physicians before signing a health care proxy form to be sure they and your health care facility will respect your wishes.
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