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substitute decision-maker (health care agent, representative, or proxy)

a substitute decision-maker is a person who is chosen to make health care decisions for you should a severe illness or injury prevent you from making these decisions for yourself. the document that grants this decision-making power to the person selected is called a personal directive, representation agreement, or another name depending on the province or territory.

a substitute decision-maker may also be called a health care agent, representative, or proxy.

although laws vary by province or territory, a decision-maker can usually make treatment decisions (if health professionals agree with these decisions) at the end of life or anytime a person is not able to communicate. as soon as you select a decision-maker, it is important to thoroughly discuss and document health care preferences, such as when to continue or abandon life-support measures.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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