How is the appointment of a health care surrogate part of an advance directive?

It is important for everyone, young and old, to plan for both end-of-life care and unforeseen medical problems. There are certain documents you can prepare to appoint a trusted person to assist you with health care decisions if you are incapacitated.

Health Care Surrogate

A great first step in preparation for this is to designate a health care surrogate. A health care surrogate is an appointed individual who makes health care decisions for you when you become unable to make them yourself. This individual advises doctors and makes important medical decisions for you. Your living will and appointment of a health care surrogate are two documents that can guide your health care decision-making. A health care surrogate does not have any control of your finances unless indicated. Typically, you would designate a durable power of attorney to have access to your finances.

If you have further questions about this topic or setting up your estate and end-of-life documents, contact one of our experienced estate planning attorneys at (941) 906-1231.