If you find yourself somewhat incapacitated because you had an unfortunate run in with an 18 wheeler during your travels, you might realize then that a healthcare proxy could have done you some good, or at least prevent Dr. Fronkensteeen from stealing your brain.
Momsie warmed me up to this idea since I’ll be traveling more often, and should God forbid, something should happen to me where I couldn’t make medical decisions on my own, there would at least be recourse where my closest family would be able to make them for me as my legal healthcare agents.
The laws vary by state, but here’s the information page for New York on health care proxy issues, including a form you can download as well.
The form requires two witnesses other than your agent, but once it’s signed it’s legally binding. The original copy is then given to your health care agent, and you can keep a copy on your person for unexpected emergencies. I keep a copy of mine in my backpack along with my MacBook and other gadgets, which I’m always carrying around with me.
For those who live outside of New York you can visit this site “Do Your Proxy” site to create your own forms.
Now I can rest safely in the knowledge that should I ever have my brain crushed by a falling airplane during a sightseeing mountain tour in Alaska, only Mommy can pull the plug on me. :-D
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Maybe a notice that you have such a proxy would be something that could be put on a medic alert id bracelet. Then they wouldn’t have to search your backpack to find it. Or you could just make your own I.C.E. card to carry in your wallet containing the pertinent info.
Good ideas!