Essentia Health is hosting a series of free advance care planning (ACP) classes in the coming months. ACP is a process that helps you think and talk about your choices for health care in the future. It’s important for every adult to have an advance directive, also known as a living will or health care directive.
The classes will be offered on the following days:
• Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 24
• Noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 16
• Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 12
Everyone is invited to join in thought-provoking conversation to discover the value of ACP, reflect on your values, choose a health care agent, explore goals for treatment and take steps toward completing a health care directive for yourself. By having these conversations proactively, you can ensure that your preferences are understood if you become unable to make medical decisions for yourself due to an accident, injury or sudden illness.
Click here to register and for more information on ACP.
If you are unable to attend a virtual class but are interested in learning about ACP, our pre-recorded webinar, “It’s about the conversation,” is available at the above link, as well.
April 16 marks National Health Care Decisions Day (NHDD), a nationwide initiative dedicated to inspiring, educating and empowering adults to think about and document their future health care wishes. The day encourages individuals to decide, discuss and document their preferences by completing a health care directive and having conversations with the people who matter most and health care providers.
Without clear documentation, families are often left to make difficult decisions during times of crisis. Completing a health care directive helps ensure a person’s values and preferences guide their care if they are ever unable to speak for themselves. NHDD serves as an important reminder that ACP is not just for those who are elderly or seriously ill, it is important for every adult.
