The New York Health Care Proxy Law allows you to appoint someone you trust - for example, a family member or close friend - to make health care decisions for you if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself. By appointing a health care agent, you can make sure that health care providers follow your wishes.

Why should I choose a health care agent?

Appointing an agent lets you control your medical treatment by:
• allowing your agent to make health care decisions on your behalf as you would want them decided;
• choosing one person to make health care decisions because you think that person would make the best decisions;
• choosing one person to avoid conflict or confusion among family members and/or significant others.

You may also appoint an alternate agent to take over if your first choice cannot make decisions for you.

How do I appoint a health care agent?

All competent adults, 18 years of age or older, can appoint a health care agent by signing a form called a Health Care Proxy. You don't need a lawyer or a notary, just two adult witnesses. Your agent cannot sign as a witness. You can use this form, but you don't have to.