durable power of attorney for health care
(DER-uh-bul POW-er ... uh-TER-nee ... helth kayr)
A type of advance directive that gives a person (called a proxy) the authority to make medical decisions for another person if that person is not able to make their own decisions. A proxy is usually a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer who knows the person's values, wishes, and treatment preferences. Also called health care proxy and medical power of attorney.