The Basics
Health Care Proxy
Allows you to grant someone the right to make medical decisions on your behalf during a medical emergency.
HIPAA Authorization
A document that allows the person you name in your health care proxy to access specific health information required to make decisions regarding your medical care.
The Benefits
Choose A Decision Maker
If you can't communicate your wishes, who will? Name someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Keep Your Family In The Loop
A HIPAA Authorization form allows your medical agent to have access to your medical records. Otherwise, if you're over 18 years old, doctors may not be legally allowed to share this information.
Make Healthcare Less Tricky
No one can access your medical records without your consent. Make it easy for your medical agent, regular care doctors, and family members to share information with hospitals and health care providers. This means faster, more effective treatment.
FAQ
What happens if I don't have a health care proxy?
If you do not have a health care proxy and can't make health care decisions on your own, state law determines who makes decisions on your behalf. In some states, these decisions may be left to your doctors.
Can I still make health care decisions for myself if I create a health care proxy?
Yes. Your agent can only make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so on your own.
What happens if I don't have a HIPAA form?
Your healthcare provider is prohibited from disclosing or even discussing your medical information with anyone. This includes members of your family.
