What is the main function of a health care surrogate?

The main function of a health care surrogate is to allow an individual to appoint another person to make health care decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so due to incapacity or an inability to communicate their wishes. This legal arrangement ensures that the surrogate can act in accordance with the principal's wishes regarding medical treatment, thereby respecting the individual's autonomy and personal values, even when they are unable to express their preferences.

This mechanism is particularly essential in situations where a patient may be facing a medical emergency or is rendered unconscious. In such cases, health care providers turn to the designated surrogate to guide treatment choices, which is critical for ensuring that care aligns with what the patient would have wanted. This form of advance directive helps caregivers understand the patient's values and preferences without needing to make decisions in a vacuum.