Ohio’s Hospice Recognizes National Healthcare Decisions Day
Each year, National Healthcare Decisions Day is recognized on April 16, a day for all individuals to remember the importance of making personal healthcare decisions known. It’s vital to discuss end-of-life care wishes with family members, loved ones, and doctors regardless of current health status.
In the absence of an advance directive, medical personnel rely on loved ones to determine what a patient’s wishes might be. Family members often struggle to make these difficult decisions and are burdened by the challenge of making these care choices. Advance care planning enables individuals to be proactive in expressing their wishes and respecting and implementing those decisions in the future.
Sharing your desires regarding decision making and end-of-life wishes can be a gift to your loved ones should you become unable to speak for yourself. Making your priorities clear and documenting these thoughtful discussions ensures that care teams and loved ones can provide the care you want.
Being in charge of personal healthcare brings peace of mind for individuals as well as giving direction so loved ones are not left guessing and know they have fulfilled your desires.
To observe National Healthcare Decisions Day, you can start conversations with loved ones about your healthcare wishes and prepare yourself and your family for those decisions. Get started by visiting additional resources such as the Ohio’s Hospice Choices Advances Directives Booklet and Decide to be Heard.
