What is the purpose of substitute judgement?

Substitute judgment is a key concept in healthcare and legal settings, particularly concerning decision-making for individuals who are unable to make their own choices due to incapacity. The purpose of substitute judgment is to guide surrogate decision makers in making decisions that reflect the patient's own values, preferences, and beliefs as closely as possible. This approach assumes that the surrogate, often a family member or close friend, is aware of what the patient would have wanted if they were able to communicate their wishes. This ensures that the individual's autonomy and dignity are respected even when they cannot express their desires.

By focusing on the patient's values, substitute judgment helps promote patient-centered care and aligns medical decisions with the individual's personal goals and lifestyle preferences. This approach is particularly crucial in complex medical situations where treatment options may heavily impact quality of life.