Also see the separate article Coma. Previously, the term persistent vegetative state (PVS) was used to describe all patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness. PVS has become marked by ethical and medical dilemmas, often, if not always, requiring legal assistance.
Full Definition of AGENCY. 1. a: the office or function of an agent b: the relationship between a principal and that person's agent. 2. : the capacity, condition, or state of acting or of exerting power: operation.
n, pl-cies. 1. (Commerce) a business or other organization providing a specific service: an employment agency. 2. (Commerce) the place where an agent conducts business. 3. (Commerce) the business, duties, or functions of an agent. 4. action, power, or operation: the agency of fate.