You've been designated as a Healthcare Agent

What you should do now

1. Review their Directive. Ask to see the full document, not just the wallet card. Understand each blood choice they've made.
2. Understand their blood choices. Read the Blood Choices Guide so you know what each item means — especially any marked "Personal Decision" (those are your calls to make).
3. Know how to access the Directive in an emergency. Get the QR code link. Know the passcode if agent info is encrypted. Save the link in your phone.
4. Discuss their decisions. Have a conversation about the "Personal Decision" items. When would they want you to accept? When would they want you to refuse? What's their reasoning?
5. Know who the alternate agent is. If you're unavailable, who's the backup? Make sure they're also informed.

In an emergency

• Show the wallet card or pull up the QR code on your phone
• Tell the medical team: "This patient has an Advance Medical Directive on file"
• Provide the passcode if asked (for encrypted agent information)
• For "Personal Decision" items, you make the call based on what you discussed
• If you can't be there, call the alternate agent

Your legal role

As a designated Healthcare Agent, you have the legal authority to make blood-related medical decisions when the patient cannot communicate. This authority is granted by the advance Directive document and is recognized in most jurisdictions.

You are not expected to make decisions the patient would disagree with. Your role is to carry out their documented decisions, especially for items they've already decided (Accept or Refuse). Your judgment applies primarily to "Personal Decision" items.

Helpful guides

• Understanding blood choices — learn what each product and procedure is
• Reading the wallet card — what each field means
• FAQ — common questions about Directives and emergencies