Get Informed:
Advance Directives

What do I need to consider when choosing a health care surrogate?

There are several important factors to consider when choosing a health care surrogate:

• This person may be your spouse or partner, a relative or close friend, or whomever you want.
• The person you choose should know as much as possible about your wishes. Talk to him or her to clarify what you want. Discuss your desires, values, fears and preferences about medical care in various situations.
• Your health care surrogate should be willing to talk to your doctors and ask them for the information he or she may need to make decisions and ensure your wishes are carried out. You and your agent should be aware that they might need to assert themselves with health care professionals or even other family members in order to honor your wishes.
• Tell your family members and health care providers whom you have selected as your health care surrogate and why, so there is no confusion in an emergency situation.

The above information on advance directives is provided as a courtesy and should not be relied upon as legal advice. There are statutory provisions that address and set forth specific requirements for each of the advance directives listed above that are not discussed in this general information. You should consult an attorney regarding such requirements and any questions you may have regarding your legal rights and responsibilities.

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More in this section:

• What are advance directives and why do I need them?
• Where can I find copies of advance directive documents?
• What do I need to consider when choosing a health care surrogate?
• What steps should I take to complete my advance directives?

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