Georgia State Board of Funeral Service Practice Exam

Who is a healthcare agent?

1. A person who sells insurance

2. A legal representative for funeral services

3. A person appointed to make healthcare decisions for another

4. An emergency medical technician

The correct answer is: A person appointed to make healthcare decisions for another

A healthcare agent is specifically defined as a person appointed to make healthcare decisions on behalf of another individual, typically when that individual is unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacity. This role is critical in ensuring that the medical preferences and values of the person they represent are respected and upheld in healthcare situations. The healthcare agent usually derives their authority from a legal document, such as a healthcare power of attorney. This designated individual must be trusted to communicate and advocate for the patient's medical preferences, making choices regarding treatments, procedures, and even end-of-life care when necessary. In contrast, the other options don't accurately define the role of a healthcare agent. Selling insurance does not involve making healthcare decisions for others, and the legal representative for funeral services primarily focuses on arrangements after death rather than during healthcare situations. An emergency medical technician provides immediate medical care but does not have authority to make long-term healthcare decisions for a patient.