The Health Care Proxy is the legal document in New York State which gives the agent authority to make medical decisions for a person who is incapacitated. As accidents or serious illness can occur at any age it is important that everyone has this document, not just a senior citizen. Only one individual at a time can be appointed as an agent under the proxy. A successor agent can be named in the document.
It is always important to discuss with your named agent what your feelings are regarding care. For example, the law requires that your agent knows your wishes regarding artificial nutrition and hydration as life-sustaining treatment. This should be spelled out in the Health Care Proxy. An individual can also make clear in the document any other concerns regarding treatment.
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. I invite you to contact me and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting me does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information until an attorney-client relationship has been established.
Robert W. Shaw is licensed in New York.
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