Today is National Healthcare Decision Day

April 16, 2009 by  
Filed under Ethics In Action


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If you read Monday’s blog you will know that medicine can be corrupt and the best defense you can have is to put your wishes in writing. So, what should you be doing today?

1. Talk to your loved ones about what you would want if you were going to live in a terrible condition. And talk to your loved ones about what you want if you were dying. Not just the medical choices but where and how you would want to die and what else might make it a good death for you.

2. Tell your doctors about all of these wishes as well.

3. Fill out your advance directive for healthcare decisions. Go to my resource page to download an advance directive. Print out copies for everyone you care about.

4. Give copies of your completed form to your loved ones and all of your doctors and your local hospital. Keep a note in your wallet stating the phone numbers of your decision makers and where your advance directive is kept. It should be kept on your refrigerator, in your medicine cabinet or at your bedside.

5. Be comforted in knowing that you have taken care of things so it won’t be a burden on your family. It is a gift to them to make sure they aren’t burdened by having to make these difficult decisions for you.

6. If you need help, please contact me at viki@kindethics.com.

Have a kind and respectful day.

Got a question?  Ask Viki.  <!–coldform–>