Designation of Health Care Surrogate Form in Illinois for 2023

What is a Health Care Surrogate?

A Health Care Surrogate is someone you designate to make medical decisions for you in case you are unable to do so yourself. The surrogate is usually someone close to you, such as a family member or friend, who knows your medical wishes and is willing to make decisions for you based on those wishes. This can be an invaluable resource if you become incapacitated or otherwise unable to make decisions for yourself.

Why is the Designation of a Health Care Surrogate Necessary?

Designating a Health Care Surrogate can be an important step to make sure your wishes will be followed in the event of an unexpected medical emergency. Without a designated surrogate, your medical decisions will be made by someone appointed by the court. Designating a surrogate allows you to ensure that the person who makes your medical decisions is someone you trust and is familiar with your wishes.

What is Required to Designate a Health Care Surrogate in Illinois?

In Illinois, the designation of a Health Care Surrogate is done through a form called the Illinois Health Care Surrogate Designation Form. This form must be completed in writing and signed by you and two witnesses. In addition, the form must be notarized in order to be valid.

Who Can Serve as a Health Care Surrogate in Illinois?

In Illinois, any person you designate can serve as your surrogate, as long as they are 18 years of age or older and of sound mind. This person can be a family member, a friend, or any other person you trust to make medical decisions for you in accordance with your wishes.

What Types of Decisions Can My Health Care Surrogate Make?

Your Health Care Surrogate can make a range of decisions for you, including decisions about your medical care, treatments, medications, and other related matters. They will also be able to access your medical records, discuss your care with your healthcare providers, and make decisions regarding your care in the event you are unable to do so.

When Does My Health Care Surrogate’s Authority Begin and End?

Your Health Care Surrogate’s authority begins when your primary healthcare provider determines that you are unable to make decisions for yourself. This authority ends when you are able to make decisions again or when you revoke the designation of your Health Care Surrogate.

Can I Revoke My Health Care Surrogate Designation?

Yes. You can revoke your Health Care Surrogate’s designation at any time. You can do this by completing a form, signing it, and having it notarized. Once the form is completed and notarized, your Health Care Surrogate’s authority will end.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Designate a Health Care Surrogate?

No, you do not need a lawyer to designate a Health Care Surrogate in Illinois. You can find the form online and complete it on your own. However, if you have any questions or need help with the process, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney to make sure everything is done correctly.

Conclusion

Designating a Health Care Surrogate is an important step to make sure your wishes will be followed in the event of an unexpected medical emergency. In Illinois, the designation of a Health Care Surrogate is done through a form called the Illinois Health Care Surrogate Designation Form. This form must be completed in writing and signed by you and two witnesses. In addition, the form must be notarized in order for it to be valid. If you have any questions or need help with the process, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney to make sure everything is done correctly.