How To Talk To Your Health Care Provider About Your End-Of-Life Wishes

One of the most important conversations you will ever have--and also the most difficult--is to share your thoughts and feelings about the end of your life. The people closest to you need to know what you want for your last days so that they can advocate for your wishes, if you, for any reason, are unable to speak for yourself. This conversation could help you avoid being kept alive for months on a ventilator with a brain that no longer functions. Your loved ones will only be able to protect you from excessive futile medical care if they know that this is your preference. Read more here about having an end-of-life discussion with your family and friends. But talking with your personal health care professional about your feelings and wishes is also essential. Your provider may be part of the medical decision-making team at the end of your life and will know, in alignment with your loved ones, what choices you would make for yourself. In addition, your medical practitioner can offer you valuable advice about your current state of health and the tough decisions you may need to face in the future. While every care provider should be prepared to engage in end-of-life conversations with patients, your practitioner may or may not be comfortable with the subject matter. But it is important that you pursue the discussion and insist on receiving answers to your questions, because this step is crucial for the future wellbeing of your family and you. In addition, you can help bring ...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news