Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day

Today is the seventh annual National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD). This is a national day set aside to encourage everyone age 18 and older to have family discussions about personal values and beliefs, to choose a spokesperson, and to complete a health care proxy. NHDD exists to inspire, educate & empower the public & providers about the importance of advance care planning.

Who : You, your family, loved ones and friends. Everyone 18 years of age and older!

What : Speak with your husband, your wife, your loved ones and your doctor about your values, beliefs and what is important to you.

Where: Your home, around the kitchen table or wherever your family gathers to discuss important issues.

When: April 16 (NHDD) or any time in April!

Why: Anyone can face acute illness or injury and lose the ability to make medical decisions. Starting advance care planning discussions early will ensure your care and treatment is directed by someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. Early conversation eases anxiety for your loved ones and provides peace of mind.

How: Real stories can help you start the conversation. Use Sophie Bomba’s story or the Advance Care Planning videos on CompassionAndSupport YouTube Channel.

Start Your Conversation Today: Read about the difference between advance directives and medical orders. Review the Advance Care Planning resources on CompassionAndSupport.org. Share these advance care planning resources with your friends.

Raise Awareness Through Social Media
Follow @PatBombaMD and @KatieGOrem on Twitter. Use #NHDD and #NHDDNY in your messages.
Like CompassionAndSupport on Facebook and encourage friends to do so. Friend Dr. Pat Bomba and Katie Orem.