There may come a time when you’re unable to make decisions about your medical care. A power of attorney will step in in this case and make those decisions for you, based on your own personal wishes. A power of attorney has a lot of responsibilities, which should not be taken lightly considering the gravity of the situation. As a result, it’s important to make your selection carefully. Very Well Health recommends looking for the following traits when choosing a healthcare proxy.
Your healthcare proxy will need to speak up to doctors and other medical staff providing your care. This can be intimidating for many people, especially within an emergency situation. That’s why it’s important to choose a person who is assertive and isn’t afraid of challenging authority. It also helps to understand basic medical terminology and procedures. That will allow the person to make informed decisions and determine whether the treatments being recommended are in-line with your wishes.
You must also choose a person you can trust. It can be difficult to carry out a person’s wishes, especially when they conflict with your own feelings. This person must be willing to put their thoughts and feelings aside to ensure you receive the appropriate type of care. The person must also be reliable and willing to show up for you when the time comes.
Finally, the person must be able to remain calm and even-keeled, even when under pressure. Along with dealing with medical staff, your healthcare proxy must also deal with family members who may be at odds with your wishes. Remaining calm in the face of mounting tensions can be difficult for many people, so make sure the person you choose is up for this monumental task.