A patient advocate, also called a medical power of attorney, is a person who speaks for you when you cannot speak for yourself. This person makes sure your medical wishes are followed if you are too sick or injured to tell the doctors what you want. In fact, they can make important healthcare decisions for you based on your wishes.
A patient advocate has a copy of your advance directives, which lists how you want to be cared for, especially at the end of your life. It’s important to choose someone you trust to be your patient advocate. Lastly remember, you can be sure that your healthcare preferences are respected and followed, even when you can’t communicate them yourself.
