Health Care Surrogate
/ˈhɛlθ kɛər ˈsʌrəɡɪt/
Definitions
- (n.) An individual authorized to make health care decisions on behalf of another person who is incapacitated and unable to make those decisions themselves.
The health care surrogate consented to the medical treatment after the patient became unconscious.
Forms
- health care surrogate
- health care surrogates
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Typically appointed by a legal document such as a durable power of attorney for health care; the role activates when the principal is incapacitated.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.