Of course, medical emergencies happen without warning. While no one likes to think about these situations, you can take control by deciding who will speak for you during a health crisis.
What is a healthcare proxy?
A healthcare proxy lets you pick someone to make medical choices for you when you can’t speak for yourself. In New York, this legal document gives your chosen person the power to work with doctors and make decisions based on what you would want. Think of it as picking your medical voice when illness or injury removes your communication ability.
How a healthcare proxy helps your family
When you don’t have a healthcare proxy, your family faces added stress and possible disagreements during tough times. Here’s what this document does for you and your loved ones:
- Stops family arguments about your care
- Speeds up critical medical decisions
- Keeps your faith and personal choices safe
- Takes the pressure off your family to guess what you want
- Gives legal backup to the person you choose
After naming your proxy, they can step in only when doctors say you can’t make your own choices. In New York, your proxy can decide about:
- Life support options
- Feeding tubes
- Other major medical care
Your healthcare proxy must follow your wishes and do what’s best for you. You can change your choice of proxy at any time.
Planning with a healthcare proxy shows genuine care for your family. Yes, talking about possible health problems feels hard. But writing down your wishes now helps everyone later. Think of it as leaving a medical road map for your loved ones to follow.
An estate planning lawyer can help you create a healthcare proxy that follows New York law and truly works for your needs. Taking this step today can save your family from tough choices tomorrow.
