The Surrogate Decision-Making Committee (SDMC) program is an alternative to the court system for individuals who lack capacity to provide informed consent, do not have a legally authorized decision maker to act on their behalf and are in need of non-emergency major medical procedures. The SDMC program also handles end-of-life decision making for qualifying individuals.
SDMC uses specially trained volunteers to review declarations regarding a person’s capacity and need for treatment and then renders a decision at a quasi-judicial hearing. Whenever possible, the person in need of treatment attends the hearing. On average, SDMC decisions are made within 14 days from the time a case is received. This service is offered free of charge.
If you are interested in learning more about the SDMC program, please call (518) 549-0328, (800) 624-4143 or by email at SDMC@justicecenter.ny.gov
If you are interested in becoming an SDMC volunteer, click the "Volunteer" button below.
If you are a provider agency interested in requesting a training, please contact: SDMC@justicecenter.ny.gov