Advance Care Planning (ACP) helps you, the important people in your life, and your health care team understand your priorities in situations when you are unable to speak for yourself.
ACP is especially helpful when thinking about end-of-life care. It is best achieved with open and meaningful conversations so that you can express what care you would, or would not, like to receive. This allows everyone to know and respect your wishes.
An advance care plan is not limited to medical care, it can also cover:
- What makes life precious and meaningful to you, such as where you would like to be and who you would like to be with you as your condition changes.
- The ways you would like those caring for you to look after your spiritual and emotional needs.
- What sort of funeral you would like and whether you want to be buried or cremated.
- Whether you wanted to donate your organs.
- Where your important papers are and whether you have an Enduring Power of Attorney or Advance Directive in place.
It is ideal to record and share this information by completing a document designed for the purpose – there are a number of versions of ACP templates in New Zealand to meet different needs.
To learn more about Advance Care Planning, or if you would like us to provide you with a document template for your own Plan, please talk to one of your care team. You can also visit the Health Quality & Safety Commission New Zealand Website to get started today.
