Advance care planning is how you share your values, wishes and beliefs about the care you want to receive if you become terribly sick. Talking and writing down what matters to you with family and friends provides them peace of mind that they will make the right decision for you.
Some questions to consider when creating your advance care plan include:
- Who would you choose and trust to speak for you about your health choices if you were unable to speak?
- Does this person know what kind of care you want or do not want if you have a serious illness?
- What care would you like to receive when you die?
Make sure to write down what you want on a legal document, like an advance health care directive, that you can share with your family and health care team. Putting a plan in writing helps those caring for you to honor your wishes.
At Hawaii Pacific Health, our team can help you make the decisions that are right for you. Here are ways you can get started with advance care planning:
- Speak with your provider.
- Sign up for advance care planning class and invite your family to attend with you.
- Start talking about what you want.
Advance care plans can change at any time. Be sure to share any updates to your plan with your loved ones and health care team.
Advance Care Planning at Kapiolani
Understanding advance care planning will help you determine kind of care you would and would not want if you became very sick. Knowing your health care wishes can provide comfort and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Beginning the discussion for advance care planning can seem daunting, however Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children is here to help you take the first step. Contact your primary care provider today to discuss how creating an advance care plan can help you.
If in the event you are hospitalized, your physician, nurse or social worker may schedule an appointment with an Advance Care Planning Facilitator.
This service is available at: Kapiolani Pali Momi Straub Benioff Wilcox
