We prepare for life’s unexpected difficulties by purchasing insurance, storing food and essential supplies, and building an emergency savings fund. But what if a sudden health crisis left you unable to direct your own care? Would your family and loved ones know what you’d want?
“Since September is National Preparedness Month, that’s a great time to complete an advance directive as an important part of emergency preparedness,” says Mary Helen Stricklin, palliative care director. “It tells healthcare providers who you’d want to make medical decisions for you, and what treatments you would or wouldn’t want if you’re ever in a situation where you can’t speak for yourself. An advance directive is an important tool to make your decisions known no matter your age or current health.”
While it is a legal document, an advance directive is free and easy to create and can be completed without an attorney. Plus, Intermountain has streamlined the preparation process. If you have a My Health+ account, just log on to the app (on either your computer or smart phone), look for “Health Tools” in the menu, and go to the “Advance Care Planning Tool.” Alternatively, you can get more details and a paper copy of an advance directive form by visiting the advance directive homepage.
Once your paper document is completed, visit the advance directive homepage for information on how you can add your document to your electronic medical record. The website also has instructions on where to email or send a paper copy so it can be added to your record.
“Remember to review your advance directive each year if you already have one in place since situations and health can change from year to year,” says Mary Helen.
Upcoming online workshops about advance directives are scheduled for September 8, 20, 22, and October 6 and 13. LiVe Well Reward dollars are available for participating. Get more details and sign up at LiVe Well Workshop Schedule.