A healthcare proxy is a document that appoints someone to make medical decisions for a person if that person cannot make or communicate decisions.
In plain language, it names a health-care decision-maker. The appointed person may also be called an agent, surrogate, or health-care representative depending on the jurisdiction.
Why it matters
A healthcare proxy matters because family members and medical providers may need clear authority when a patient is incapacitated. The document can reduce uncertainty over who should decide.
It also matters because the proxy’s authority is usually limited to health-care decisions, not all financial or legal matters.
Where it appears
Healthcare proxies appear in advance directives, hospital forms, estate-planning files, elder-care planning, and end-of-life decision-making.
Practical example
A person names a spouse as healthcare proxy. If the person later cannot communicate after an accident, the spouse may make medical decisions within the document’s authority.
How it differs from nearby terms
A healthcare proxy differs from a living will. A living will states treatment preferences; a healthcare proxy names a decision-maker.
It also differs from a durable power of attorney, which often covers financial or legal authority.
Related terms
Quick knowledge check
Question: What does a healthcare proxy usually name?
Answer: A person authorized to make medical decisions if the patient cannot do so.