Uniform Healthcare Decisions Act

The Uniform Healthcare Decisions Act is a legal framework that guides how healthcare decisions are made when a person cannot communicate their wishes. It allows individuals to appoint a trusted person (a healthcare proxy) to make medical choices on their behalf, and establishes procedures for determining a person's preferences if no proxy is named. The Act aims to ensure patients' wishes are respected, promote consistent decision-making across states, and provide clarity for healthcare providers and families during difficult times. It emphasizes informed, respectful choices aligned with the patient's values and best interests.