Originally Posted by
ro-monster
I've always wondered what happens in such situations when people (me, for example) don't have any relatives. I had few to begin with, and the last of them died years ago.
If the patient is unable to give consent and/or if a delay in treatment caused by obtaining consent will cause harm, then care will be given immediately. John Doe will get the urgent/lifesaving care that he needs.
For less-urgent treatment procedures, consent will be pursued; in Indiana, consent can be given by a spouse, parent, adult sibling or adult child, in no particular legal order. Good reason to be on good terms will the whole family.
If no family, and no health care representative or advance directive, then things can be complicated.