What is another name for a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care (HPOA)?

A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care (HPOA) is often referred to as a health-care proxy. This designation highlights that an individual, known as the proxy, is appointed to make medical decisions on behalf of another person when that person is unable to do so themselves due to incapacity. The term "proxy" specifically conveys the idea of acting on someone else's behalf in health-related matters.

While other terms like "Medical Power of Attorney" may seem similar and are often used interchangeably in some jurisdictions, they can sometimes imply different scopes or contexts depending on specific legal definitions. A health care directive typically refers to a document outlining a person's wishes regarding medical treatment and may not necessarily include the appointment of an agent to make decisions. Therefore, "health-care proxy" is the most accurate alternative name for a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, emphasizing the representational role in medical decision-making.