Advance Directives, such as health care proxies and living wills, allow people to retain control over medical decisions. The Massachusetts Health Care Proxy Law (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 201D) permits people to appoint a "health care proxy" (called an "Agent") using the health care proxy form.

If you live outside of Massachusetts, please see our Links section. 

What is a Health Care Proxy?
A health care proxy is a simple legal document that designates a trusted relative or friend to make health care decisions for you if, because of an illness or accident, you're incapable of making or communicating them yourself.

It's a simple three-step process:

1. Choose a trusted person to be your agent.
2. Talk to him or her about your health care wishes. Using a Values Discussion Guide may be helpful.
3. Fill out a health care proxy form and give copies to all of your health care providers.

What is a Living Will?
A living will is a document in which you specify in advance medical treatment that you would or would not want in the event that you become unable to express your wishes. Massachusetts is one of only three states that recognizes health care proxies but does not recognize living wills. Living Wills are still potentially useful because they guide Agents and physicians about the types of choices a person would make. 

Important Differences Between Health Care Proxies and Living Wills

Health Care Proxy Information and Forms