When you think about your future healthcare, do you know who will make decisions for you if you’re unable to do so? This question is at the heart of National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD), which falls on April 16 each year. It’s a time for all of us to reflect on the importance of planning for our healthcare needs, regardless of age or current health status.
If you haven’t yet made healthcare decisions, now is the time to act. NHDD serves as a powerful reminder to start the conversation about your care preferences, create essential documents, and ensure that your wishes are respected if the unexpected happens.
Let’s break down why National Healthcare Decisions Day matters, and how you can make sure your medical care decisions are clearly communicated, even when you’re unable to speak for yourself.
What is National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD)?
National Healthcare Decisions Day is an annual event designed to raise awareness about advance care planning and empower people to document their healthcare wishes. It’s an initiative that encourages us to think ahead and make our healthcare decisions known through legal documents like:
- Advance Directives
- Living Wills
- Healthcare Power of Attorney
This day is not just for older adults or those facing health challenges—it’s for everyone. By planning ahead, you ensure your values, wishes, and preferences are honored in times of illness, injury, or incapacity.
Why Do You Need an Advance Healthcare Plan?
No one likes to think about a medical crisis or the possibility of becoming incapacitated, but the truth is, planning for the unexpected is a critical part of protecting your future. Having a healthcare plan in place:
- Gives You Control
You have the right to decide what medical treatments you want or don’t want if you become unable to communicate. An advance directive or living will can specify whether or not you want life-saving measures or treatment for terminal conditions. - Relieves the Burden on Your Family
Healthcare decisions made under stress can be overwhelming for loved ones. By documenting your preferences, you relieve them of the difficult task of making decisions on your behalf. - Prevents Confusion and Disputes
Without clear guidance, your family or healthcare providers may be unsure of your preferences, leading to disagreements or delays in treatment. A healthcare power of attorney ensures that someone you trust can make decisions for you if necessary.
Key Legal Documents to Consider
To make your healthcare decisions legally binding, there are a few essential documents to consider:
1. Advance Directives
An Advance Directive is a general term for documents that guide your healthcare decisions in the event you become unable to communicate. This can include instructions about life-sustaining treatment, organ donation, and more.
2. Living Will
A Living Will outlines your preferences for medical treatment, especially in cases of serious illness or injury. It provides instructions on whether you want life-sustaining treatments like ventilators or feeding tubes if you’re in a coma or persistent vegetative state.
3. Healthcare Power of Attorney
A Healthcare Power of Attorney (HCPA) designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make them yourself. This person will make decisions based on your wishes and best interests, ensuring that your values are reflected in the choices made.
How to Get Started: Planning for Your Future Healthcare Needs
If you haven’t already, April 16 is the perfect time to start the process of creating your healthcare plan. Here’s how you can get started:
- Have the Conversation
Talk with your family and loved ones about your healthcare preferences. This can be a difficult conversation, but it’s an important one to ensure that they understand your wishes. - Consult with an Attorney
While some documents, like living wills, are straightforward, it’s wise to consult with an attorney to ensure that your healthcare directives are legally valid and meet your state’s requirements. - Fill Out the Forms
Your attorney can help you create the necessary documents, or you can use state-specific forms available online. Be sure to include specific instructions and update them regularly as your preferences evolve. - Choose a Healthcare Power of Attorney
Select someone you trust to make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. Make sure they understand your values and are willing to act in your best interest. - Share Your Documents
Keep a copy of your healthcare plan in a safe, easily accessible place. Make sure your healthcare providers, family members, and designated power of attorney have copies as well.
Start the Conversation Today—Don’t Wait for a Crisis
National Healthcare Decisions Day is a reminder that making decisions about your healthcare is crucial. No one likes to think about illness or incapacity, but planning ahead ensures that your wishes are respected no matter what the future holds.
Don’t wait for a medical crisis to force these decisions. Start planning now so that your values and preferences are known and respected when they matter most.
Speak to your loved ones about your healthcare preferences, and consult with an attorney to get your documents in order. We can help you create a plan that fits your needs.