A Representation Agreement is about your personal care and health decisions. It allows you to choose someone to speak for you if you cannot make those decisions on your own.
For example, if you were in an accident or became seriously ill, someone may need to decide on medical treatments, where you will live, or what kind of care you receive. A Representation Agreement ensures that the person making those decisions is someone you trust and that they understand your wishes.
Without this document, health care providers may turn to a default decision-maker or follow a legal list of who can decide for you. This might not be the person you would have chosen.
Representation Agreements are unique to British Columbia and can be tailored to your situation. Some cover major health decisions, while others are simpler and can even be made if your decision-making ability is already limited.
At its core, this document gives you a voice when you may not be able to speak for yourself. It helps ensure your values, preferences, and wishes are respected during some of life’s most important moments.