How this service helps
This document lets you choose someone to make health care decisions, receive health information, or both, within the authority you grant. You can name an alternate if your first choice is unavailable. A thoughtful designation considers who understands your wishes and can communicate with your care team during a difficult time.
Make sure someone knows your wishes
When a medical situation becomes stressful, having a trusted person ready to speak with your care team can bring clarity. A health care surrogate designation gives you the opportunity to choose that person in advance and talk with them about the care that matters to you.
Choose someone who can be there for you
This is a personal decision. We help you think beyond a name on a page.
Someone who understands you
Consider who will listen to your preferences and respect your choices.
Someone who can communicate
Think about who can ask questions, speak with providers, and remain engaged during a difficult situation.
Someone to step in if needed
An alternate can help keep your plan practical if your first choice is unavailable.
Useful at many stages of life
This planning is not only for older adults. A young adult living away from home, a parent raising children, or someone preparing for treatment may all want to make their preferences clear. It can also be helpful when the person you want involved is a partner or close friend.
A conversation that puts you first
We explain the authority you can grant, help you select your surrogate and alternate, and discuss how this document works with a living will. You will leave the process with a clearer understanding of whom you have chosen and how to communicate your wishes to them.
Your questions, answered
Is this the same as a living will?
No. A surrogate designation identifies who can act for you. A living will expresses your wishes about certain life-prolonging treatment. They serve different, complementary purposes.
Can the authority start immediately?
Florida law allows you to give certain authority immediately. The wording should reflect your preferences, and your own decisions remain controlling while you have capacity.
Who should receive a copy?
Give a copy to your designated surrogate and discuss sharing it with your health care providers. Make sure the people you choose understand your wishes.
Wondering how this fits your life?
You do not need to know exactly which document to request. Tell us about your family, your goals, and your questions. We will help you identify the next step, in English or Spanish.