Advance Care Planning

In the event that you become incapable of directing your own health care treatment, or expressing your own decisions, your medical team will look to those closest to you for direction and consent.   it is important that those closest to you understand what your values and wishes would be for your future health treatment should you be unable to speak for yourself. Advance care planning starts with talking with your close family, friends and health care provider(s) so that they know the health care treatment you would agree to, or refuse, if you become incapable of expressing your own decisions.

For more information about what is important to think about and discuss, and how to document your wishes, there are online resources that can help get you started:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/seniors/health-safety/advance-care-planning

https://www.bc-cpc.ca/all-resources/individuals/acp/acp-resources/