Advance Care Planning
Helping You Make Your Wishes Known
What is Advance Care Planning?
Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a process that helps you think about and share your values, goals, and preferences for future medical care. It ensures that if you become too ill to speak for yourself, the care you receive aligns with your wishes.
Advance Care Planning is not just about end-of-life decisions. It’s about preparing for unexpected health events and ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones—regardless of age or current health status.
Why is Advance Care Planning Important?
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You stay in control. ACP allows you to decide the kind of care you would want—or not want—based on what matters most to you.
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Reduces stress for loved ones. In difficult moments, your family won’t have to guess what you would want. Instead, they’ll have guidance from you.
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Improves quality of care. Healthcare teams can better honor your preferences and avoid unnecessary or unwanted treatments.
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It’s a gift. ACP is one of the most thoughtful and loving things you can do for those closest to you.
How Supportive Medicine Specialists Helps
At SMS, we believe in person-centered care. Our team of experienced palliative care professionals guides you through every step of the Advance Care Planning process with compassion and clarity.
Here’s how we help:
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One-on-one conversations to explore your values and goals for care
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Guidance on selecting a healthcare proxy (someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf)
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Help completing and documenting Advance Directives such as a Living Will or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
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Support in sharing your wishes with your family and medical team
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Integration with your medical record to ensure your preferences are easily accessible to all your providers
Whether you're facing a serious illness or simply planning ahead, we're here to help you have the conversations that matter.