Why every Christian Scientist should have a health care proxy
There are many Christian Scientists who do not know the importance of executing a proxy (see the link at the bottom of this page for a sample Massachusetts health care proxy).
Here are a few reasons why it is important to have a health care proxy:
- The health care proxy (also called “durable power of attorney for health care” in some states) allows you to decide your choice of care in the case that you cannot speak for yourself. It allows you to set out exactly your wishes for how to be cared for, and in whatever level of detail you want, should there be a need.
- Without the proxy, it is usually the state that will make the decision for you. You may be assuming that your family or close friends would be able to speak for you and make the decisions that you would want. It is state law that governs this issue. In Massachusetts, for example, if an individual is unable to speak for himself only the state or his health care proxy agent can speak for him.
- It is a kindness to family and close friends to make choice of care decisions in writing, and to discuss them fully.
Click here to read a post that outlines proxy sources, suggestions for conversations, and distribution of copies.
Health Care Proxy – Massachusetts Sample
Click on the following link for a PDF version of the five-page informational document…
View Health Care Proxy – Massachusetts Sample PDF
