The New York health care proxy you appoint an Agent, or Surrogate, who is in charge of directing your medical care. Therefore it is vital that he or she share your views and philosophies as to critical medical issues in relation to end of life treatment options. The State imposes few restrictions as to your choice, other than that your Health Care Agent must be over 18, and he or she cannot be involved professionally in providing your healthcare (unless the person is your spouse or a direct relative).