Healthwise

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Health care agent

A health care agent is a person you choose to make medical decisions for you if a severe illness or injury makes it impossible for you to speak or decide for yourself. The document that grants this decision-making power to the person you select is called a medical power of attorney.

A health care agent may also be called a health care proxy or health care surrogate. The medical power of attorney may also be called a durable power of attorney for health care. The agent and the document may be called something else in your state.

Laws vary by state. But a health care agent can usually make medical treatment decisions at the end of life or anytime a person is not able to communicate. As soon as you choose a health care agent, it's important to talk about and write down your medical care preferences. For example, you would talk about when to continue or stop life-support measures.

Due to the threat of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are taking precautionary measures to protect our staff and patients. We are implementing a temporary NO VISITOR policy at this time. Only patients or patients and their guardians will be allowed into the office. Please note, this is not to inconvenience anyone! The virus is a very real threat and it is essential that we stay healthy in order to provide needed care for our patients. If you are sick, we ask that you CALL the office to speak with a nurse before you come in. The nurse will provide specific instructions for you. Please DO NOT enter the office if you are sick (upper respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, or flu like symptoms). We are closely monitoring the situation and will update you as circumstances change. Thank you for your understanding!!