Advance Care Planning (ACP) is for everyone, regardless of age or health condition. It is a voluntary discussion that helps you to express your wishes about your future health and personal care.
The ACP discussion will guide you to reflect on your personal beliefs, values and share your healthcare preferences with your loved ones and healthcare providers. You will also be asked to appoint a nominated healthcare spokesperson (NHS) to help you to make important decisions in the event that you are no longer able to communicate. The discussion will be documented in the form of an advance care plan that will be used to guide your healthcare team and loved ones to make decisions on your behalf during an emergency.
With these conversations carried out early, your loved ones can have peace of mind without having to make assumptions about what you might or might not want in a medical crisis. The advance care plan will help your loved ones and the healthcare team to make better decisions that match your life values and healthcare goals during the critical periods.