Your Decisions Matter
Americans across the country need to make their future healthcare decisions known to their family, friends and healthcare providers. National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) exists to inspire, educate and empower the public and health providers about the importance of advanced care planning. No matter what your age it’s important for you to complete an Advance Directive and that informs your family about your healthcare wishes. Even if you have one in place, things can change, so it’s a good time to dust it off and review it. This is an important step for young adults too.
What is an Advance Directive? An Advance Directive is used to guide your healthcare team and loved ones when they need to make healthcare decisions or to decide who will make these decisions for you when you can’t make them yourself. These medical decisions might include special life support actions or emergency care from your healthcare team.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers access to Advance Directive forms and additional information. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has Advanced Directive forms online. These forms are designed for you to complete without needing help from an attorney. However, you may have a situation or concern where you do want to seek legal advice from an attorney. The forms include:
- Declaration to Physicians (Wisconsin Living Will)
- Power of Attorney for Health Care
- Power of Attorney for Finance and Property
- Authorization for Final Disposition
You may also get these forms, or similar forms, from your attorney, doctor, or hospital. Click Here for more information from Kenosha County ADRC.
NHDD RESOURCES
5 Tips for Having a Conversation About Your Health Care Wishes
Keep Talking Over Time
You don’t have to talk about everything or talk to everyone in the first conversation. In fact, we suggest you keep talking over time!
Be Patient
Be patient. Some people are nervous or may need time to get ready to talk. Every time you start a conversation, it helps you come closer to making your wishes fully known. Keep trying.
Listen to What the Other Person Says
You don’t have to lead the whole conversation; it’s important to also listen to what the other person says so you can build trust.
Nothing is Permanent
Nothing you say is permanent. You can always change your mind as things change in the future.
Keep Talking
You may find out during these conversations that you and your trusted people disagree. That’s OK (no judgement!). The important thing is that you’re talking now and to keep talking – so you’re prepared in case your health changes.
Do not wait to schedule your appointment.
Kenosha Community Health Center has many appointment options in Kenosha and Silver Lake to meet your needs.
Schedule An Appointment
