### Question
How does the law define representative?


### Answer
Under *38 U.S.C. § 7332*, **representative** is defined as:

> an individual, organization, or other body authorized under section 7331 of this title and its implementing regulations to give informed consent on behalf of a patient who lacks decision-making capacity

#### Citation:
  - *38 U.S.C. § 7332*
  - Heading: **PART V-BOARDS, ADMINISTRATIONS, AND SERVICES > CHAPTER 73-VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION&mdash;ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTIONS > SUBCHAPTER III-PROTECTION OF PATIENT RIGHTS**

