What is a Healthcare Proxy and Why One is Needed

A healthcare proxy, as known as a medical power of attorney, is something we often overlook until it's too late. If you have a loved one currently aging in place, it's time to discuss his or her wishes in the event of a medical emergency.

What is a Healthcare Proxy?

A healthcare proxy is essentially a document that legally authorizes someone else to make medical decisions. This individual is referred to as an agent, surrogate, or representative. A representative is appointed to make all medical decisions if the patient becomes unable to do so.

Situations where a surrogate would step in include:

• sudden incapacitation (an accident)

• scheduled procedure complications (surgery)

• chronic illness progression (no longer of sound mind)

It is important to remember that an agent does not have control over financial assets and does not make decisions unless it is medically necessary.

Who Needs a Healthcare Proxy?

In short, every adult does. No one plans to become injured or ill, but even the healthiest and strongest among us can experience an accident or a medical emergency. In the blink of an eye, everything can change and its important to have someone on your side.

Benefits of a Healthcare Proxy:

• You choose who is in charge of your medical charge

• Family members won't be in conflict over your wishes

• You are secure knowing your wishes will be respected

Without a health care proxy, medical providers will contact a default next of kin or might have to request the court to appoint a legal guardian, which can cause delays in treatment.

Talking to Your Loved One about a Healthcare Proxy

Bringing up the subject of a medical representative isn't easy. Understandably, people often prefer to avoid the topic and would rather leave the decision for another day. If your relative or loved one is still independent at home, they might balk at the idea of needing someone to make their medical decisions for them.

It's best to bring up the subject during a calm time. Explain to your loved one that a healthcare proxy protects them and their wishes. If they have objections to blood transfusions, for example, it's important to include that stipulation in the proxy.

How to Put a Healthcare Proxy in Place

Each state's qualifications for a healthcare proxy vary. In Maryland, an agent is assigned via an advanced directive. The form for Maryland can be found here. This document needs to be filled out, on paper on electronically, in the presence of two witnesses. The document then can be given to interested parties, such as a primary care provider or the local hospital.

For residents of Western Maryland, local hospitals such as UPMC do ask patients at appointments if they'd like to complete an advanced directive. If your loved one has an upcoming appointment, this is something to keep in mind.

Start the Process Today

As with anything in life, it's always best to have a contingency plan. A healthcare proxy keeps everyone involved protected and respected if the worst should happen. Talk to your loved one today about their wishes.