Similar to a power of attorney, a health care proxy is a document in which an individual names an agent who can legally make medical decisions when he or she is not able to do so. By designating an agent you know and trust with this power, it may be possible to avoid the necessity of guardianship.
The agent named in a healthcare proxy will not be held financially responsible for the decisions made by or wishes of the incapacitated individual.
A health care proxy may also be known as a durable power of attorney for health care.