What is a health care proxy?

A health care proxy, also called a health care power of attorney, is a document that allows individuals to designate another person to make decisions regarding their medical care if they become incapacitated. In California, this legal document, which must be signed by both parties, allows the chosen individual to make decisions about healthcare treatments, procedures, and the release of medical information. The health care proxy should be drafted with the assistance of a lawyer and should include the individual’s wishes, preferences, and instructions for any kind of medical treatment. It is important to choose someone who is trustworthy and knowledgeable to act as a health care proxy and understands the wishes of the individual. Furthermore, it is also important to make sure that this document is kept in a secure place, such as a personal safe, and that the chosen individual is made aware of its existence. Having a health care proxy is an important step in ensuring that an individual’s medical decisions are respected even if they are unable to make the decisions themselves.

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