An Advance Care Plan is created from your perspective, and functions as a guide for your family, friends and medical practitioners who might be involved in the choices that are made about your health, in the future.
Advance Care Planning is a process adults (at any age or stage of health) take to contemplate and communicate their preferences, personal values and life goals regarding future medical care.
We have created a detailed ‘end of life wishes’ checklist here, which includes some advanced care planning. It also allows you to consider other end of life choices such as where you would prefer to die, whether you wish to be cremated or buried and other preferences around your funeral.
Filling in our template which can be downloaded here would be a good first step in terms of your end of life wishes.
Why should I make an advanced care plan?
Having a considered Advance Care Plan might be beneficial at time when you are unable to speak or communicate for yourself, or if there is an emergency.
How do I make an advanced care plan?
Advance Care Planning Australia (ACPA) is a is a national program funded by the Australian Government. If you are in Australia, you can begin the process of making a more formal, legal binding version, called an Advanced Care Directive here.
You will need to consult a medical practitioner if you choose to complete this instructional directive.
What are some questions I should consider as part of an advanced care plan?
- Who would I want to speak for me if could not speak for myself?
- Who should make medical decisions for me if I am unable to make them myself?
- Have I discussed what I want with that person?
- What sorts of things are important and meaningful for me in life?
- Might there be any disagreement among my family, friends or carers about my wishes?
- Do I know yet what medical treatments I would or would not want, if my doctors thought I was unlikely to survive?
- Do I know where I would, or would not want to be cared for if I was unable to care for myself?
Common Questions
What is the difference between an Advance Care Plan and an Advance Care Directive?
An Advance Care Plan is an informal document outlining your wishes and preferences for future medical care. An Advance Care Directive is a formal, legally binding version that must be completed with a medical practitioner.
When should I make an Advance Care Plan?
At any age and any stage of health. You don’t need to be elderly or unwell to have one. The earlier you create one, the better prepared your family will be.
Can I change my Advance Care Plan?
Yes, you can update it at any time. It is a good idea to review it regularly, particularly if your health or personal circumstances change.
What happens if I don’t have an Advance Care Plan?
Without one, medical decisions may be made by doctors or family members without clear guidance from you. This can cause unnecessary distress for your loved ones at an already difficult time.
How do I get started on End of Life Planning?
If you would like to explore this topic further, we have put together a comprehensive guide to end of life planning. Visit our End of Life Planning page to learn more.