What is advance care planning?

Advance care planning is the process of learning about the choices you have in relation to your future medical care, and how you want to be treated if you are unable to speak for yourself. The process includes learning about medical treatment options, exploring your feelings about life-sustaining treatments, choosing a healthcare advocate, and putting your wishes into writing.

If I become too ill to communicate, how can I ensure my healthcare wishes are followed?

The most effective way is to complete medical directives — documents that put your wishes in writing — and to designate a healthcare advocate who is legally empowered to speak on your behalf. Talking with your physician and your family in advance gives everyone the perspective and information needed to honor your wishes.

Do I need to prepare a living will or medical power of attorney?

You are not required to, but it is the best way to ensure your intentions are honored if you cannot communicate them yourself. Advance care planning also helps your family by reducing uncertainty, confusion, and conflict about your care. If you do not name a healthcare advocate, state law will dictate how decisions are made — and those may not reflect your wishes.

What if I change my mind about my wishes?

You can change your medical directives at any time. Create a new document with your updated wishes, discard the previous one, and inform your physician, healthcare advocate, and care team. Remember — your advance directive is only referenced when you are unable to communicate your desires. If you are awake and able to speak, you can always make your intentions known directly.

Can someone speak for me if I cannot communicate?

Yes. A medical power of attorney designates a person — known as your healthcare advocate — to speak on your behalf. This person does not have to be a family member. It is important that your family and healthcare advocate are aware of your decisions and your medical directives. Having these documents in place before they are needed is strongly advisable.

Do I need a lawyer to complete medical directive documents?

No. You do not need an attorney. We have forms available to document your future healthcare wishes. Upon completion, you simply need to sign them in front of a witness. As your primary care provider we can initiate this conversation and incorporate your advance care plan into your health record — as we are often contacted during emergencies to determine whether a directive is in place.

Do doctors and hospitals have to follow my instructions?

State laws require healthcare professionals to follow your stated wishes. If a doctor, nurse, hospital, or nursing facility is unable or unwilling to follow your written instructions, they must transfer you to a provider willing to abide by your directives.

How will my family know when palliative or hospice care is appropriate?

We closely engage with family members to provide guidance about when palliative or hospice care is appropriate. Palliative care improves quality of life and provides comfort for patients with serious illnesses. Hospice care is for patients nearing the end of life and involves a coordinated team including physicians, nurses, social workers, clergy, and volunteers who also provide support for family members.