Compassion & Choices
August 25th, 2025
Who will speak for you? A guide to choosing a healthcare proxy…
Do you have questions about the language behind advance care planning? A critical part of the process is choosing someone who will represent you in case you can’t represent yourself. But the terms used to refer to these representatives, and the forms needed to appoint them, can vary — especially by state or region.
Who is a healthcare proxy and how do I select one? If you had surgery or were facing an emergency, who would you want by your side? Who would you trust to speak on your behalf?
Your proxy should be an adult you trust — whether a family member, friend, neighbor, or anyone who knows what matters to you and can stand up for you if you are unable to communicate for yourself. However, you cannot appoint your primary care physician or any other healthcare practitioner involved in your care unless they are related to you.
