Advance Care Planning

Did you know?

• 90% of people say talking with their loved ones about end of life care is important.
• Less than 30% of people have actually done so.

Thinking about being sick and talking about end of life care can be uncomfortable. However, the easiest time to talk about advance care planning is before an illness, when you have time for discussion and reflection with your loved ones. Family members say that having their loved one talk to them about what is important makes their job a lot easier. 

What is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning is the process of taking the time now to plan for future medical care in case you become too sick to make your own decisions.

An advance directive allows you to put your wishes in writing and share them with your loved ones and caregivers. A living will is a type of advance directive.

The advance care planning process includes:

• Starting the conversation — sharing your health care wishes with your loved ones before an illness or crisis.
• Choosing a health care agent — picking the person who would make decisions for your care if you became unable to do this yourself.
• Thinking about your values — thinking about what is most important and what you would like to avoid if you are sick.

Crisis or illness situations are always hard. If your loved ones know your preferences ahead of time, you can help make these times a little easier.

By going through the advance care planning process, you can give your loved ones peace of mind knowing they honored and respected your wishes if they ever have to make medical decisions for you.

Advance Care Planning Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions About Advance Directives
• PREPARE — The PREPARE website is designed to help people and their loved ones prepare for medical decision making.
• The Conversation Project — The Conversation Project is dedicated to helping people and their loved ones prepare for medical decision making.
• Advance Care Planning Brochure — Learn more about starting the conversation around advance care planning.
• Pennsylvania residents can learn more about advance care directives here.
  • Access the Pennsylvania Advance Health Care Directive Form (PDF).
• Maryland residents can learn more and access their advance directive form here.

From Our Health Library

• Writing an Advance Directive
• Advance Directive: What to Include

Contact Us

For more information, or to talk with someone about advance care planning, contact the UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute at PSIcare@upmc.edu

Maryland residents can contact the UPMC Western Maryland Care Coordination/Social Work Department at 240-964-1090 or learn more on our website.

Additional Resources

• Local and National Palliative Care Resources and Groups
• 8 Step Advance Care Planning Guide
• Advance Care Planning brochure (PDF)

For more information about advance directives, download Pennsylvania Advance Health Care Directive (PDF).