Have you chosen someone to make health care decisions on your behalf when you are unable to speak for yourself? If not, you need to name someone in your estate plan.
This party is referred to as a health care proxy or agent. They will follow the instructions in your advance directive for health care and make other decisions for you if you become incapacitated. Below are three tips to help you when choosing your agent:
1. They should be well-informed
Your agent should be well-informed about your current health status, values and preferences concerning certain treatments, among others. This means you need to have open and honest communication with them, which can be difficult if they’re uncomfortable discussing things like the end stages of life and dying. Choose an agent with whom you can comfortably share your health care wishes and priorities.
2. They must be willing to respect your wishes
Even though your agent may have to make some decisions on their own, they need to use your living will and the wishes you’ve privately conveyed to them as guidance. If you have disparate belief systems, your proxy may struggle to advocate for you properly.
- They have to be capable of withstanding pressure
You want an agent who can strongly advocate for you to get the appropriate care – even when your wishes and their decisions on your behalf conflict with some of your loved ones’ opinions. An agent who can be easily swayed may not serve your interests best.
Choosing a health care proxy should not be taken lightly. This person plays a crucial role. Essentially, you are choosing someone you can trust with your life. Legal guidance can help you make an informed choice.