PULSE of NY Supports
National Healthcare Decisions Day
April 16, 2011
“This is the most important document you will ever sign” was emphasized by an elder-care attorney, speaking to a group of seniors at an assisted living complex. The paper he held in his hand was a health care proxy, which documents the person you designate to speak for you in a crisis, should you not be able to speak for yourself.
“The reason it is so important is because it pertains to your life – not your money, your possessions or your assets”. One needs only to fill out a single two sided sheet of paper, witnessed by two persons. This is an advanced directive, a legal document not requiring an attorney.
You can spell out your wishes, regarding CPR, ventilation, hydration – whatever you feel is best for you, or you can leave it up to the person you designate. The most important part is that you keep in touch with the designated person, your proxy, and have an ongoing conversation about your life.
National Healthcare Decisions Day, on April 16th, exists to remind all people, regardless of age or current health status, of the importance of making these decisions known. Everyone over the age of 18 should fill out this important paper at once and keep it in a safe place. Make copies for your proxy and family members and encourage your loved ones to do the same. To get more information or download a proxy visit www.pulseofny.org
Patricia A. Mulholland, RN
Board Member, Hospice Care Network
PULSE of NY, Patient Safety Advisory Council
About Hospice Care Network: Hospice Care Network believes in making every day count for the patient diagnosed with advanced illness. The focus is on caring, not curing, to allow the patient to live in peace and with dignity, surrounded by their friends and family in the environment they are most comfortable. Our hospice services gives special care to support the family throughout the advanced illness experience. Hospice Care Network cares for patients of all ages, religions, races and illnesses in Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Counties.
About PULSE of NY: PULSE of New York is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to raising awareness about patient safety and reducing medical errors through advocacy, education, and support. We work to empower the public to make informed decisions, increase effective communication and respect between healthcare providers and the public, and create community partnerships that will foster and ultimately lead to safer healthcare environments.
No comments:
Post a Comment