Community Hospice & Palliative Care encourages advance care planning for National Healthcare Decisions Day

Press release from Community Hospice & Palliative Care

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Community Hospice & Palliative Care is encouraging individuals and families to start important conversations about their healthcare wishes in recognition of National Healthcare Decisions Day.

Observed each year on April 16, National Healthcare Decisions Day inspires, educates, and empowers people to plan ahead for future healthcare decisions. The day encourages individuals to reflect on their values, discuss their wishes with loved ones, and document those preferences through advance care planning.

“Taking time to talk about future healthcare choices is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your loved ones,” said Phillip Ward, president and CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. “When wishes are clearly shared and documented, families and healthcare providers are better able to honor what matters most to the individual.”

Community Hospice & Palliative Care supports advance care planning through resources such as Five Wishes and the Honoring Choices program. Both tools help individuals think through their healthcare preferences, guide conversations with loved ones, and document decisions that can help direct care in the future.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care encourages individuals to use National Healthcare Decisions Day as an opportunity to begin the conversation and learn more about advance care planning resources available in the community.