A Health Care Proxy is a legal document that allows an individual (the principal) to designate another person (the proxy) to make health care decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so. This is an essential part of advance care planning to ensure that a patient’s medical treatment preferences are honored.

Designating a Health Care Proxy is important because it ensures that your health care wishes are respected and followed when you are unable to communicate them yourself. It provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones, knowing that a trusted person is empowered to make decisions in line with your values and preferences.

When choosing a Health Care Proxy, consider selecting someone you trust, who knows you well, and who is willing to take on this responsibility. It should be someone who can make difficult decisions under pressure and who will respect your wishes. Discuss your preferences with them to ensure they are comfortable with the role.

The steps to designate a Health Care Proxy typically include:

1. Choosing a trusted individual to act as your proxy.
2. Discussing your medical care preferences with the chosen proxy.
3. Completing a Health Care Proxy form, which can usually be obtained from your health care provider or legal advisor.
4. Signing the form in the presence of required witnesses, as specified by state law.
5. Distributing copies of the signed form to your proxy, your doctor, and other relevant parties.

Yes, you can change your Health Care Proxy at any time. To do so, complete a new Health Care Proxy form and follow the same steps for signing and distributing the updated document. Inform all relevant parties, including your previous proxy, about the change to ensure everyone is aware of your current wishes.

If you don’t have a Health Care Proxy and you become unable to make decisions, your health care providers will turn to your closest relatives to make decisions on your behalf. This may not align with your preferences, and it can create stress and conflict among family members. Designating a proxy helps avoid these issues.