A healthcare surrogate is the person who will make medical decisions for you if you become unable to make them yourself. It is a deeply personal choice — and choosing the right advocate is just as important as documenting your wishes.
What a Surrogate Does
Your healthcare surrogate steps in only when you cannot make or communicate your own medical decisions. At that point, they have significant responsibility.
A surrogate may need to:
- Talk with your doctors and understand your diagnosis and options.
- Make treatment decisions consistent with your wishes.
- Access your medical information to make informed choices.
- Advocate firmly for what you would want.
Who Can Serve in Florida
Florida lets you name almost any competent adult as your surrogate — a spouse, adult child, sibling, or trusted friend.
The most important factor is not the relationship, but whether the person truly understands your values and is willing to honor them, even under pressure from others.
Qualities to Look For
The best surrogate is someone who can balance emotion with clear thinking during a crisis.
Look for a person who is:
- Familiar with your values and beliefs about medical care.
- Calm and capable of making difficult decisions.
- Assertive enough to advocate with medical staff and family.
- Reasonably available and willing to take on the role.
Talk to Your Surrogate First
Never name a surrogate without asking them. Have an honest conversation about your wishes so they are prepared to honor them.
It is also wise to name an alternate in case your first choice is unavailable. Legacy Legal AI lets you designate both a primary and backup surrogate in your directive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I name my spouse as my surrogate?
Yes. A spouse is a common choice. The key is that the person knows your wishes and can carry them out, so consider whether they could handle the role under stress.
What if I don't name a surrogate?
If you don't name one, Florida law provides a default order of people (a 'proxy') who can decide for you — but that may not be the person you would have chosen.
Can I name more than one surrogate?
It is best to name one primary surrogate and an alternate. Requiring two people to agree can cause delays during a medical emergency.