What must a guardian obtain before proceeding with elective surgery or other significant medical decisions?

A guardian must obtain approval from the court before proceeding with elective surgery or other significant medical decisions. This requirement is in place to ensure that the rights and best interests of the ward are upheld, as these medical decisions can have profound implications for a person's health and wellbeing.

The need for court approval helps to provide an additional layer of oversight and protection, acknowledging that the guardian is making decisions on behalf of someone who may lack the capacity to provide informed consent. It is a legal safeguard that confirms the proposed medical action is necessary and appropriate given the ward’s situation.

Other options, such as obtaining consent from the ward alone or seeking waivers from medical professionals or insurance companies, do not adequately ensure that the decision-making process is appropriately supervised. Each of these alternatives lacks the necessary legal rigor and protective measures provided by involving the court in significant medical decisions.