The advance directiveLegal documents that allow you to plan and make known your own end-of-life wishes about health care and treatment in the event that you are unable to communicate. Advance directives consist of (1) a living will and (2) a medical (health care) power of attorney, sometimes called “health care surrogate,” depending on the state. (See Living Will and Medical Power... More that allows you to select a person you trust to make decisions about your medical care if you are temporarily or permanently unable to communicate and make decisions for yourself. This includes not only decisions at the end of your life, but also in other medical situations. This document is also known as a “health care proxy,” “appointment of health care agent or health care surrogate,” or “durable power of attorneyA legal document in which you can authorize another person, usually a trusted family member or friend, to make legal decisions when you are no longer able to do so yourself. More for health care.” This document goes into effect when your physician declares that you are unable to make your own medical decisions. The person you select can also be known as a health care agent, surrogate, attorney-in-fact, or health care proxy. With a medical power of attorney you can appoint a person to make health care decisions for you in case you are unable to speak for yourself.
Disclaimer
The content of this website is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed healthcare providerA provider is typically a professional healthcare worker, agency, or organization that delivers health care or social services. Providers can be individuals (doctors, nurses, social workers, and others), organizations (hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living communities, or continuing care retirement communities), agencies (e.g., home care and hospice), or businesses that sell healthcare services or assistive equipment (e.g., colostomy care supplies, wheelchairs,… More with any questions you may have regarding medical conditions. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional, financial, or legal advice.