Florida Designation of Health Care Surrogate Form

A Florida designation of health care surrogate nominates a surrogate (trusted individual) to make medical decisions for the person that completes the form (the principal). It is the official state form created by the Florida Bar and Florida Medical Association and referred to as a medical power of attorney. When writing the document, the principal can nominate another surrogate. This person is referred to as the alternate surrogate as they have decision-making power if the primary surrogate is unavailable or cannot fulfill the principal’s wishes.

The form gives those that complete it peace of mind knowing that their health care choices will be respected when (or if) they are unable to communicate them due to a medical condition. The principal must create the document before becoming incapacitated; otherwise, it is not considered valid.