Who makes medical decisions on behalf of a person when they become unable to do so?

The correct answer is that a Health Care Proxy makes medical decisions on behalf of a person when they are unable to do so. A Health Care Proxy is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make health-related decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. This appointed individual, often referred to as an agent, has the authority to make medical choices consistent with the individual’s values and preferences, ensuring that their healthcare wishes are respected.

This role is specifically designated for situations where the patient cannot communicate their desires due to illness, injury, or other health-related issues. A Health Care Proxy acts in accordance with any advance directives the person may have set forth, providing clarity and ensuring the person's medical treatment aligns with their wishes.

In contrast, a Primary Physician is primarily responsible for delivering medical care and treatment recommendations, but they do not typically have the authority to make decisions on behalf of a patient unless they are specifically designated to do so through a legal mechanism like a Health Care Proxy. A Legal Guardian may also have the authority to make broader decisions for a person, including medical ones, but this authority is generally established in more formalized legal proceedings and typically applies to a wider range of decisions beyond health care. Family Members can sometimes advocate for