Sending your child off to college marks a new chapter—but it also marks a legal milestone. Once your child turns 18, you no longer have automatic authority to make medical decisions or access their health records, even in an emergency.
That’s where a Health Care Proxy comes in.
At MCV Law, we often ask, “Who will speak for you if you can’t speak for yourself?” The same question applies to your college-age child. A Health Care Proxy is a legal document that allows your child to name someone they trust—usually a parent or guardian—to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
Whether it’s a sports injury, serious illness, or unexpected accident, emergencies can happen on or off campus. Without a Health Care Proxy, you may face obstacles accessing information or advocating for the care your child needs.
Why It Matters
- HIPAA laws prevent medical providers from sharing health information without written consent
- Emergencies often require quick decisions—having a proxy in place can avoid delays
- A well-drafted Health Care Proxy ensures your child’s wishes are honored
Part of a Complete Estate Plan
A Health Care Proxy is just one part of what we call the “Trifecta of Peace”:
- Health Care Proxy/Living Will: Speaks for your loved one during a medical crisis
- Power of Attorney: Allows someone to manage financial matters if your child is incapacitated
- Last Will and Testament: Ensures their wishes are honored after death
While these documents are often associated with older adults, young adults—especially those living independently for the first time—also benefit from having them in place.
Plan Ahead with Confidence
Our estate planning attorneys can help your family prepare a custom Health Care Proxy and provide guidance on other essential legal documents. We work with you to make sure your child’s wishes are protected and your role as a parent isn’t limited when they need you most. Call today for a free consultation.
“Paula Highers is very knowledgeable and helpful in the area of Estate Planning. She provided many scenarios for me to consider and promptly answered any questions or concerns that I had. I do not hesitate to recommend her and her staff.”
-Linda M., a satisfied MCV Law client