As a business and estate planning attorney who has drafted hundreds of advance directives for Connecticut residents over the past twelve years, I can tell you that one of the most common regrets I hear from families is, “We wish Mom or Dad had signed a Connecticut health care proxy before the stroke.” A properly executed Connecticut health care proxy (also called a medical power of attorney in CT) is the single most important document that lets you choose who will make medical decisions if you cannot speak for yourself.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about the medical power of attorney Connecticut residents use, provide a free downloadable 2025-compliant CT medical power of attorney form, and walk you step-by-step through filling it out correctly so it will be honored by every hospital in the state.
Quick Download: Click here to jump to the free Connecticut Health Care Proxy / Medical Power of Attorney template (PDF & Word)
In Connecticut, the document that appoints someone to make health care decisions for you is officially called a “Health Care Representative” appointment under Connecticut General Statutes §§ 19a-575 to 19a-580d. Most people, however, search for it as Connecticut health care proxy or medical power of attorney CT.
Key differences from other states:
Without a valid medical power of attorney form Connecticut, doctors will turn to a statutory priority list (spouse → adult children → parents → siblings) to find a surrogate. This can cause devastating delays and family fights exactly when you need clarity most.
In my practice, I’ve seen:
A signed Connecticut health care proxy prevents all of that.
According to the Connecticut General Statutes and guidance from the Office of the Healthcare Advocate:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years or older |
| Mental Capacity | Must understand the nature and consequences of the document |
| Witnesses | Two disinterested adult witnesses (cannot be your agent or alternate) |
| Notarization | Not required (but recommended if you’re also signing a living will) |
| Prohibited Agents | Your attending physician, hospital employees, or conservator (unless related by blood/marriage) |
Source: Connecticut Office of the Healthcare Advocate – Advance Directives
Download Links (updated for 2025 Connecticut law):
These templates are drafted to comply with C.G.S. § 19a-575a and include the combined appointment + optional living will language that Connecticut hospitals prefer.
APPOINTMENT OF HEALTH CARE REPRESENTATIVE
I, Jane Marie Doe, of 123 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06105, being of sound mind, appoint:
Primary Representative: John Robert Doe (spouse)
Address: same
Phone: (860) 555-0123
Alternate Representative: Sarah Jane Smith (daughter)
Address: 456 Oak Lane, New Haven, CT 06511
Phone: (203) 555-0199
(Signature and witness section follows…
Is a Connecticut health care proxy the same as a durable power of attorney?
No. A durable POA covers financial matters. The health care proxy covers only medical decisions.
Do I need both a living will and a health care proxy in CT?
No, but most attorneys recommend both. The proxy appoints your decision-maker; the living will gives guidance about end-of-life care.
Can I revoke my Connecticut medical power of attorney?
Yes — at any time by destroying all copies, signing a written revocation, or simply telling your doctor you revoke it (if you have capacity).
Will New York or Massachusetts hospitals honor my CT form?
Usually yes, because all three states have reciprocity under the Uniform Health-Care Decisions Act, but carry a copy of C.G.S. § 19a-575a just in case.
A Connecticut health care proxy is one of the kindest gifts you can give your family. It removes guesswork and conflict at the worst possible moment and ensures your values and wishes are respected.
Download your free, attorney-reviewed 2025 medical power of attorney Connecticut template today and gain peace of mind tomorrow.
Disclaimer: The information in this article and the downloadable templates are provided for general informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and your situation may have unique factors. Always consult a licensed Connecticut attorney or qualified professional before executing advance directives.
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