Resources for National Healthcare Decisions Day
Helpful Planning Resources
By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC
National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) exists to inspire, educate and empower the public and providers about the importance of advance care planning.
When asked for thorough end of life care planning resources (health agent/proxy, living will, detailed wishes) by clients and during community education talks, I often suggest Honoring Choices Massachusetts (docs are for everyone not just MA), The Conversation Project, and Five Wishes.
Honoring Choices and The Conversation Project resources are available from their websites by download at no cost.
Most of the time, Five Wishes has a fee of $5 to access a downloadable document, but now, due to the COVID-19 crisis, people being home, spending dedicated time with their family members in person or via technology, and leading up to National Healthcare Decisions Day, annually April 16 ("there's nothing certain but death and taxes") they are offering the resource FREE and I highly recommend accessing the resource and recommending to others (clients, friends, family members) to do the same!
Download your free resources here!
I know this topic can be difficult to think and talk about. I’m available to help!
It is extremely important that adults 18 years of age and older have these documents in place! While you may have filled out legal documents regarding your estate plans, it is likely you haven't written out and reviewed with others the specifics of what you want and don't want regarding end of life care.
In my work, I always remind people that having these documents in place and discussed with those you care about and care about you, is actually a gift. It's a gift because it means your intentions are spelled out. reviewed with loved ones, and no one has to wonder if, at a time of emotional stress, they are making a decision that aligns with your values and wishes.
Here’s a NBC News article about the COVID-19 crisis and end of life care planning.
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Connect With Us: When the complexity of your healthcare situation is too challenging to navigate on your own working with an independent board certified patient advocate can help cut through the “red tape” and reduce complications at an emotional time. Contact Ailene to learn more about the value of working with a private patient advocate.