Massachusetts Health Care Proxy
A health care proxy is a simple, written document, like a living will, that ensures individuals will receive the type of care they want at the end of their lives. It is a critical step for an individual because it ensures that a person's care is consistent with his or hers beliefs and values and that a person's final wishes are fulfilled.
To have a health care proxy ensures that an individual be allowed to maintain control of his or her treatment at the end of their life, the holidays are an opportune time to discuss this important issue, as families and loved ones get together.
A health care proxy is a document that designates a trusted relative or friend to make health care decisions for an individual if he or she is unable to make them for themselves. It is a legally binding instrument that allows for one's wishes to be carried out.
Massachusetts' laws support good advance care planning in the form of living wills and health care proxies, and that these documents are critical to good end-of-life care.
Resources are available for consumers from the Medical Society and the State Commission. To obtain an information packet on health care proxies, contact the Medical Society at 800-843-6356 or visit the website www.healthcareproxy.org. To view the state's Resource Guide for End of Life Services, visit www.endoflifecommission.org