Your family is your greatest love and inspiration. Perhaps the ultimate gift you can give them is your plan for care if something critical happens to your health. Then they can honor you with peace of mind.
As Health Care Decisions Day approaches on April 16, we’re reminded to bring to light our medical care wishes through advance care planning, while we’re still healthy and capable. What you want matters and, in order for others to carry out your plan, you must document it legally and share it with those you love, those who’ll speak on your behalf if you’re unable to and those who’ll handle your care.
Many Americans haven’t filled out their advance directives, leaving their care questionable and potentially unmet. For anyone 18 or older, it’s important to plan ahead before a medical event occurs. Our Empath Choices for Care specializes in providing advance care planning education and services to our Tampa Bay community. As certified facilitators, the staff conducts professional trainings and community presentations as well as assists individuals and families with creating their plans.
On April 15, Empath Choices for Care will host its second Your Greatest Plan workshop with an expert panel at our Empath Health Community Service Center in Clearwater. Medical, financial, estate and legal (elder law) planning will be presented. Everyone in the community is invited to come, learn and ask questions.
When you develop your plan, center it around your values, beliefs and everything that’s important to you. It involves discussing your preferences with your loved ones; designating a healthcare surrogate or proxy who agrees with what you want and will communicate your choices; and completing and sharing your advance directive forms (living will, etc.) with your family and doctors. And remember, your plan isn’t permanent. You may change your mind, decisions and documents at any time.
Your plan is a powerful tool to help others understand and follow your wishes. It’s the best gift you may ever give.
Register Today
Your Greatest Plan workshop will be April 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our Empath Health Community Service Center in Clearwater. The suggested donation is $10, which includes your lunch. Click here to register now or call 727-536-7364 for more information. Registration closes April 11.