Health

A health care proxy is a person legally chosen to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to communicate or make decisions yourself. Also known as a health care agent or representative, a proxy can play an important role in advance care planning by helping ensure that your medical preferences are understood and respected. The proxy's authority can vary by state and by the terms of the legal document used to appoint them. This guide explains what a health care proxy is, what rights and responsibilities the role involves, how to choose the right person, how a proxy differs from a living will and financial power of attorney, and what happens if you do not have one.

Beast

Sep 19, 2026·24 min