Health Planning
Navigating Health Care:
At any time, our health can change and difficult decisions need to be made regarding our future. Rather than leaving these decisions to happenstance, it is important to think about, plan and communicate our wishes to our family and health care providers.
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Advance Care Planning (ACP) acts as a compass for navigating future medical decisions. This process empowers individuals to articulate their values, goals, and preferences concerning their future care, especially in scenarios where they might not be able to communicate their wishes and someone else is needed to make those decisions.
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Advance Care Planning is ongoing dialogue that aids people in discussing their future healthcare preferences. It’s a preparatory step that ensures individuals and their substitute decision-maker(s) (SDM) are well-informed and ready to face future healthcare decisions. Having these discussions early alleviates the burden when critical decisions need to be made in times of crisis, ensuring that the care received aligns with the person’s values and wishes.
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The Role of Therapy in ACP
Through therapeutic support, individuals can explore their fears and hopes for the future in a safe and supportive environment. Therapists can help people articulate their values and preferences and help clients manage the stress of decision making.
Therapists can provide insight into advocating for oneself or a family member navigating the health care system. Going through these changes can be difficult and therapists can provide resources and support to make the transition smoother.
 
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Resources for ACP
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Advance Care Planning Ontario: A comprehensive platform offering tools, information, and guidance to help Ontarians understand and navigate ACP.
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ACP Workbook: An in-depth resource designed to facilitate reflection, discussion, and documentation of one’s healthcare preferences.
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Dying with Dignity Canada offers a comprehensive Advance Care Planning (ACP) kit, designed to guide individuals through the process of documenting and sharing their healthcare wishes. It emphasizes the importance of early conversations about end-of-life care preferences with family members and healthcare providers. Advance Care Planning is a crucial step in ensuring that healthcare decisions align with an individual's values and wishes.
