Health Care Proxy: Your Voice When You Can’t Speak

Have you ever considered what happens to your medical decisions if you’re unable to speak for yourself? It’s a thought many of us push aside, but it’s a crucial conversation to have. This is where the health care proxy, also known as a durable power of attorney for health care, comes in. It’s your voice when you can’t speak, ensuring your wishes are honored during times of illness or incapacity.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t entrust your financial decisions to a stranger, so why leave your medical choices to chance? A health care proxy allows you to choose a trusted individual, a health care agent, to make medical decisions on your behalf when you can’t. This could be anything from authorizing treatment options to deciding on life support measures.

Here’s an example of how it works: Imagine you’re involved in a serious accident and unable to communicate due to injuries. Your doctor needs to make critical decisions about your care, but without your input, they’re left in the dark. This is where your health care proxy steps in. They’ve had open conversations with you about your values and preferences, and they can confidently advocate for your wishes with your medical team.

The benefits of having a health care proxy are manifold:

• Peace of mind: Knowing your loved ones understand your wishes and can make decisions in your best interest brings immense comfort and reduces stress for both you and your family.
• Clarity and confidence: Your doctors have a clear roadmap to follow, ensuring your treatment aligns with your values and beliefs.
• Reduced family conflict: Difficult medical decisions can strain families, but a designated proxy minimizes confusion and eases the burden on loved ones during an already challenging time.

Remember, a health care proxy is not just about end-of-life decisions. It can be used for any situation where you’re unable to communicate your medical wishes, from routine procedures to long-term care decisions.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a health care agent:

• Select someone you trust implicitly and who understands your values and beliefs.
• Choose someone who is comfortable making difficult decisions and advocating for your wishes.
• Discuss your medical history, preferences, and values openly with your chosen agent.
• Keep your health care proxy document up-to-date as your wishes and circumstances evolve.

We include a health care proxy in every estate plan we do. Because planning isn’t just about planning for death; it’s also about planning for life. Ready to get your bundle of estate planning documents in order? Step 1: Book a Peace of Mind Planning Session. This can be via Zoom or in person. We’ll answer your questions and present your options and our fees. Normally $450, mention this blog post and we’ll waive the fee! Book your Peace of Mind Planning Session HERE. Limited spots available, so act fast!