Congratulations! You’ve done it. You’ve navigated high school, aced your exams, and now you’re packing your bags, ready to embark on the exciting journey of college. Dorm rooms, late-night study sessions, and newfound independence — it’s all just around the corner.
But amidst all the excitement, there’s one important piece of paperwork that often gets overlooked. And it’s not your class schedule or financial aid form. It’s something that becomes crucial the moment you turn 18: your Health Care Proxy.
Wait — What’s a Health Care Proxy?
You might be thinking, “Isn’t that something older people need?” Not at all. In fact, turning 18 is most likely (depending on your state) when you need one as in the eyes of the court as you are an adult now.
Once you become a legal adult, your parents or guardians no longer have automatic authority to make medical decisions for you — even in an emergency. Without a health care proxy in place, they may not be able to speak with your doctors, access your medical records, or make decisions if you’re unable to communicate.
That’s where Gentreo comes in.
With Gentreo, www.gentreo.com, you can quickly and easily create a legally valid health care proxy that ensures someone you trust — typically a parent or guardian — can step in and make decisions on your behalf if the unexpected happens.
Why College Students Need a Health Care Proxy
Let’s walk through a scenario: You’re away at school, maybe hundreds of miles from home, and you’re in an accident or suddenly fall seriously ill. If you can’t speak for yourself, doctors won’t be able to take direction from your parents unless you’ve legally appointed them as your health care agent.
Without that document, your loved ones might face frustrating delays going to court to get permission or even be blocked from helping altogether — just when you need them most.
A Health Care Proxy (also known in some states as a Medical Power of Attorney) is a legal form that gives someone you trust the authority to:
- Make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so
- Access your medical records
- Discuss your condition with doctors and health care providers
- Make decisions about treatments, procedures, or even end-of-life care, according to your values
Why Gentreo is the Smart Way to Prepare
At Gentreo, we understand that you’re stepping into adulthood — and that means more responsibility. But it shouldn’t be complicated or overwhelming. That’s why we’ve made it simple and affordable to:
- Create your Health Care Proxy online in minutes
- Securely store it in your Gentreo Digital Vault
- Instantly share access with your health care agent, doctor, and college health center
- Update it any time as your preferences change
Instead of scrambling in an emergency, everything is ready to go — with just a few clicks.
How to Create Your Health Care Proxy with Gentreo
Here’s how to do it the smart way:
- Sign up at www.gentreo.com
Our platform walks you through each step of creating a Health Care Power of Attorney (also called a Health Care Proxy), tailored to your state’s laws. - Choose your agent
This is the person you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf. Most students choose a parent or close family member. - Fill out and sign your document
We guide you through filling out the form, then help you complete the legal steps to make it valid — including witnessing and storing it. - Save and share it in your Gentreo Digital Vault
Once it’s signed, your Health Care Proxy lives in your secure online Vault. You can grant instant access to your agent, physician, and college health office, so it’s always there when needed. - Review it regularly
Life changes — and your plans might too. With Gentreo, it’s easy to update your proxy if you change schools, move, or want to name a different agent.
Make It Part of Your College Checklist
You’ve packed your bedding, signed up for classes, and maybe even said goodbye to your family dog. Now add this one small, but incredibly important, item to your college checklist: your Health Care Proxy.
It’s more than just a form — it’s peace of mind.
You’re showing that you’re prepared, responsible, and ready to take control of your health and future. And you’re giving your loved ones the ability to help when it matters most.
Gentreo Helps Families Stay Connected, No Matter the Distance
At Gentreo, we’re all about empowering families through every stage of life — from turning 18 to getting married, becoming a parent, or caring for aging relatives.
Creating a Health Care Proxy as you head off to college is just the beginning of your adulting journey. We’re here to help every step of the way, offering easy, affordable estate planning tools built for real life.
Don’t Wait — Create Yours Today
In just a few minutes, you can create and securely store your Health Care Proxy at www.gentreo.com. It’s one of the most important things you can take with you to college — and it fits perfectly in your digital backpack.
And, If you’re a parent reading this and your child is about to turn 18, you can help them take this first step into adulthood. Sit down together, talk about their wishes, and help them set up their Gentreo account. It’s a meaningful way to stay connected, even as they grow more independent.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure. Click HERE to join now.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.
