Empower Your Patients on National Healthcare Decisions Day

April 16th is National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD). As health care providers, you play a crucial role in guiding your patients through advance care planning. 

Why It Matters 

NHDD encourages individuals to express their health care wishes and document decisions. Your support ensures patients’ preferences are respected and honored. 

How You Can Help 

• Start Conversations: Use open-ended questions to explore patients’ values and preferences. 

• Provide Resources: Offer simple, clear educational materials and guide patients in creating their directives. 

• Encourage Documentation: Highlight the importance of having and sharing advance directives. 

• Review Regularly: Remind patients to update their directives after major life changes. 

• Create Comfort: Ensure a private, supportive setting for these important discussions. 

• Listen Actively: Show empathy and collaborate with other professionals to provide comprehensive support. 

Resources 

The Conversation Project: Offers resources to help healthcare providers engage patients and families in end-of-life care conversations. Learn more. 

New York Advance Directive Forms – English and Spanish