Healthcare planning is a crucial aspect of preparing for major life events. However, it is equally important to have a healthcare plan in place as well. Medical emergencies can arise unexpectedly, which makes it essential to have someone who can advocate for your health care decisions when you are unable to communicate. On National Healthcare Decisions Day, observed on April 16, UW Health emphasizes the importance of advanced care planning.
One way to ensure that your health care wishes are respected and followed in times of need is by designating a trusted individual as your health care advocate or power of attorney for health care. By creating an advance directive, you can outline your preferences and have a say in your future health care. In the past two years, over 5,000 people have benefited from UW Health’s expanded advance care planning services, which can be completed in as little as 10 minutes.
Dr. Mark Micek, UW Health’s medical director of population health, stresses the importance of discussing goals and values with healthcare providers and loved ones. Taking proactive steps to plan for future health care needs can help individuals feel empowered and secure.
UW Health offers free webinars to guide individuals through the process of completing a power of attorney document, regardless of whether they are patients at UW Health.
Residents of Illinois and Wisconsin can access health forms on the UW Health website to begin their advance care planning. By initiating these conversations and completing necessary documents, individuals can ensure that their health care wishes are respected and followed in times of need.
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