Making decisions about your healthcare is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. Observed annually on April 16, National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) exists to highlight the importance of these decisions and empower everyone to plan for their future.
This blog will take a closer look at NHDD, why it’s important and how you can take steps today to align your healthcare with your values, beliefs and goals. Whether you’re navigating your own decisions or discussing these topics with family members, the information here is designed to guide you with compassion and clarity.
What is National Healthcare Decisions Day?
National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) is a campaign dedicated to educating people about the importance of healthcare planning. It’s a day to encourage conversations around advance directives, living wills and end-of-life care preferences. Led by The Conversation Project, NHDD aims to foster compassionate dialogues about making sure your healthcare preferences are honored, even if you cannot express them yourself.
The day is not just about formal documentation; it’s about helping individuals understand their options and communicate their wishes to those who may one day be responsible for their care decisions.
Why are healthcare decisions important?
Healthcare planning goes beyond medical decisions; it’s about maintaining a sense of control, reducing emotional burdens on loved ones and honoring personal values. There are many ways healthcare planning can be beneficial. First, it provides clarity in critical situations. Accidents or sudden illnesses can strike when we least expect them and having an advance directive lets healthcare providers know your preferences if you’re unable to communicate.
Additionally, advance planning gives relief to your loved ones. Making decisions during emotional crises can be overwhelming for family members. Documenting your wishes spares them the burden of guessing what you’d want.
Lastly, it preserves your values. Your healthcare choices may be tied to religious, ethical or cultural beliefs. Advance planning allows you to align your care with those principles.
A 2017 study shows that only about 37 percent of adults have completed advance directives, yet many people agree on their importance. This National Healthcare Decisions Day take time to close this gap!
Key tools for documenting healthcare decisions
- Advance directives
These legal documents outline your preferences for medical treatment if you become unable to make decisions. Advance directives consist of two main components:
- Living will: This specifies the treatments you do or do not want, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation or tube feeding.
- Durable power of attorney for healthcare (healthcare proxy): This names a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf.
- POLST (Physician orders for life-sustaining treatment)
POLST forms are designed for individuals facing serious illnesses. They translate your healthcare preferences into medical orders that all healthcare providers must follow.
- Healthcare agent communication
While forms are helpful, open communication with your healthcare proxy and loved ones is critical. Make sure they understand your values and preferences, so they feel confident in advocating for you.
How to start the conversation
Talking about healthcare decisions can be challenging. Many avoid it out of discomfort, but NHDD provides an opportunity to normalize these discussions. Before you start the conversation with loved ones prepare yourself by reflecting on your values and deciding what matters most to you in your quality of life.
Next, research your options. Understanding medical terminology and legal forms can make the discussion smoother.
Third, choose the right time and place. Look for natural opportunities to bring up the topic, like when discussing important life events or during family gatherings. A relaxed, private setting encourages openness. Using conversation starters can be helpful such as, “I was reading about National Healthcare Decisions Day… have you thought about what you’d want in a medical emergency?” or “I want to make sure my wishes are clear. Can we talk about advanced directives together?”
Lastly, approach the discussion with care and empathy. Acknowledge that it’s a tough topic and allow room for emotions.
Tips for completing advance directives
Once you’ve had the initial conversation, it’s time to take action. Follow these steps to create meaningful and legally binding documentation:
- Access state-specific forms
Each state has its own requirements for advance directives. These forms are typically available through local health departments or organizations like the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO).
- Consult with healthcare professionals
Speak with your doctor about potential scenarios related to your health. Their insight can determine if your directives are medically sound.
- Discuss with your proxy
If you’ve named someone as your healthcare agent, review the documents with them. Clarify your wishes and confirm they’re comfortable with the responsibility.
- Store documents safely
Keep copies of your advance directive in an easily accessible place. Share them with your primary care physician, your healthcare proxy and close family members.
- Review annually
Your preferences may change over time, so revisit your advance directives regularly.
NHDD reminds us of the power we have over our future healthcare. By taking small steps today, you can provide peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones while making sure your care reflects your personal values.
Begin your healthcare planning today. Whether it’s filling out an advance directive, talking to your family or speaking to a healthcare professional, every gesture matters.
Maxim Healthcare Services provides a range of home health and personal care services. Contact your local office to learn more about Maxim’s services to get the support you need.
