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Take ActionPennsylvania Healthcare Laws
Pennsylvania law does not specifically provide for a partner to make decisions on behalf of an incapacitated same-sex partner, but, "an adult who has knowledge of the principal's preferences and values…" is among those listed. Contact must be attempted with at least five individuals before a partner would have authority. § 5461.
An adult may appoint his or her partner to make health care decisions on his or her behalf. A valid health care power of attorney must identify the principal, appoint the health care agent and declare that the principal authorizes the health care agent to make health care decisions on behalf of the principal. § 5453.
Citation: Health Care; Health Care Agents and Representatives: 20 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5451 to 5465
The legal information provided on this page is provided as a courtesy to the public. It is not designed to serve as legal advice. HRC does not warrant that this information is current or comprehensive.
Last Updated: 4/30/2008
Updated: Tue, April 29, 2008 - 11:00:23
