What is a durable power of attorney for health care also known as?

A durable power of attorney for health care is commonly referred to as a health care proxy. This legal document allows an individual to appoint someone else to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to communicate their wishes. The health care proxy acts in the best interest of the person and follows their known preferences regarding treatment and care.

The other terms, while related to health care decision-making, have distinct meanings. A living will generally outlines specific medical treatments that a person does or does not want if they are terminally ill or incapacitated but does not assign decision-making authority to another person. A patient advocate typically refers to someone who supports and assists with health care decisions but may not have the legal authority granted by a durable power of attorney. A medical directive can refer to various documents that guide medical care but does not specifically denote the role of a person appointed to make decisions on behalf of someone else, as the health care proxy does.