Palliative Care

Advance care planning is making decisions about the healthcare you would want to receive if you happen to become unable to speak for yourself. These are your decisions to make, regardless of what you choose for your care, and the decisions are based on your personal values, preferences, and discussions with your loved ones.

Advance care planning includes:

  • Getting information on the types of life-sustaining treatments that are available.
  • Deciding what types of treatment you would or would not want should you be diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.
  • Sharing your personal values with your loved ones.
  • Completing advance directives to put into writing what types of treatment you would or would not want- and who you choose to speak for you- should you be unable to speak for yourself

What are Advance Directives?

Advance directives are legal documents that ensure your wishes are followed if you cannot make decisions for yourself.

Advance directives are not just for the elderly! Anyone over the age of 18 should have an advance directive.

There are times when people- even young, healthy people- can’t make their own decisions about medical care.

  • You could be injured in an accident and arrive at the hospital unconscious.
  • You might be under general anesthesia for routine surgery when something unexpected happens.
  • You could have an illness that leaves you unable to speak, or you are comatose.

Let’s get started!

Are you ready to start planning your health care in advance? Download this comprehensive, easy to follow guide to completing an advance directive Planning Your Health Care in Advance

For more information about advance directives or to schedule an educational event contact a location nearest you.