LawSmart.com

What Is A Health Care Proxy?

A health care proxy is a legal document that designates a trusted relative or friend to make health care decisions for you if, because of an illness or accident, you're incapable of making or communicating them yourself. The Massachusetts Health Care Proxy Law (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 201D) permits people to appoint a Health Care Proxy (called an "Agent" in the law) using the Health Care Proxy Form. Health care providers and facilities are bound to follow your Agent's decisions as if they were your own. You are free to choose almost anyone as an Agent, but it is important that you discuss your treatment preferences with your Agent. You may also write on the form certain treatments that you do or do not want, or limit the authority of your Agent. You may also appoint an Alternate Agent, in case your Agent is unavailable or unable to make decisions regarding your care.

Other Massachusetts Estate Planning FAQs

Q: What Are Advance Directives?
A: Advance Directives, such as Health Care Proxies and Living Wills, allow people to retain control over medical decisions. Massachusetts law allows people to make their … More
Q: When Does The Health Care Proxy Become Effective?
A: The Proxy becomes effective when your doctor determines that you are unable to make or communicate health care decisions. Your doctor then must record in the chart the … More
Q: What Should I Do With My Health Care Proxy Once I Sign It?
A: Once you have signed the form, it is recommended that you make at least four copies. Keep the original yourself, and give copies to your Agent, Alternate agent, your … More
Q: How Long Does The Health Care Proxy Remain Valid?
A: The form remains valid unless you revoke it by: signing another Health Care Proxy form at a later date; legally separating from or divorcing your spouse and your … More
Q: What Is A Living Will?
A: A living will is a document in which you specify in advance medical treatment that you would or would not want in the event that you become unable to express your … More

Estate Planning Sub-categories

Durable Power Of Attorney
Estate Planning
Estate Taxes
Guardianship

Power of Attorney
Probate
Trusts
Wills