Qualities to Look for in a Health Care Agent

Previous posts have explained that the only requirements of a health care agent are that they be at least 18 years old and not be your doctor or an employee of your health care provider unless they are also a member of your immediate family.  But there are a lot of people who pass that test who would not make good health care agents.  When picking your agent, I would recommend you look for someone with the following qualities, which we find make the best agents from working with family during actual medical crisis. Keep in mind that the importance of some of these factors may depend on whether your top priority is having your wishes honored or having your family feel best about the process.

1. Would be willing to serve in this role and speak on your behalf?
2. Would be able to act on your wishes and separate his/her own feelings from yours?
3. Lives close by or could travel to be at your side if needed? (If your agent is someone who lives far enough away that it would take them a while to reach your treatment facility, you may want to select a temporary agent to serve until your agent can reach you.)
4. Knows you well and understands what’s important to you?
5. Will talk with you now about sensitive issues and will listen to your wishes?
6. Will likely be available long into the future?
7. Would be able to sensitively handle conflicting opinions between family members and friends?
8. Can be an advocate in the face of an unresponsive doctor or institution?

Can't think of anyone in your life who is a perfect fit for all these factors?  Few clients can, but this list can help you create a meaningful pro and con list as you consider candidates.  The goal is to find the best agent you can.

To schedule a consultation to talk about the specific people in your life and who might be your best agent, please contact us at info@phinneyestatelaw.com or call us at (206) 459-1908.

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