Advance Care Planning: Empowering Patients and Families in Palliative Care
- cassia care
- Aug 17, 2024
- 3 min read
When faced with a serious illness, many individuals and their families find themselves navigating an unfamiliar and often overwhelming landscape of medical decisions. At Cassia Care, we believe that each patient's wishes and quality of life are paramount. One of the most essential steps in ensuring that those wishes are respected is through Advance Care Planning (ACP).
Understanding Advance Care Planning
Advance Care Planning is a process that allows patients to reflect on and communicate their values, goals, and preferences regarding their future healthcare.
This planning includes creating an Advance Directive, which is a legal document that outlines the types of medical treatment a person would or would not want if they become unable to communicate their decisions.
It also often involves designating a healthcare proxy—someone who can make decisions on behalf of the patient if needed.
The Importance of Advance Care Planning in India
In India, the concept of palliative care and ACP is still emerging.
According to a report by the Indian Association of Palliative Care, less than 10% of Indians have access to palliative care services, and even fewer are aware of or have completed an Advance Directive.
This highlights the pressing need to raise awareness and integrate ACP into the broader healthcare system.
For a country with a rapidly aging population and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, the need for ACP is becoming increasingly urgent. By ensuring that medical care aligns with the patient's values and wishes, ACP can play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families.
How Advance Care Planning Benefits Patients and Families
Respecting Patient Autonomy
ACP allows patients to express their healthcare preferences clearly, ensuring that their wishes are honoured even when they can no longer communicate. This can provide immense peace of mind for patients, knowing that their voice will be heard.
Reducing Stress for Families
Families often face difficult decisions during a loved one's serious illness. ACP can alleviate some of this burden by providing clear guidance on the patient's preferences, reducing uncertainty and potential conflicts among family members.
Enhancing Communication
The ACP process encourages open, honest conversations between patients, their families, and healthcare providers. These discussions can foster a deeper understanding of the patient's values and goals, leading to more personalized and meaningful care.
Improving End-of-Life Care
Studies indicate that in regions where ACP is more widely practiced, patients are more likely to receive care that aligns with their preferences at the end of life.
In India, where end-of-life care is often dictated by family or societal expectations, ACP can ensure that the patient’s own wishes are at the forefront.
Advance Care Planning at Our Clinic
At Cassia Care, we are committed to supporting patients and their families through every step of the ACP process. Our compassionate team works closely with each patient to explore their values and preferences, guiding them in creating a plan that truly reflects their wishes.
We understand that these conversations can be difficult, but they are also profoundly important.
Our approach is patient-centered and empathetic, ensuring that every individual feels heard and respected. We believe that ACP is not just about making decisions—it's about empowering patients to live their lives according to their values, even in the face of serious illness.
Taking the First Step
If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, we encourage you to consider Advance Care Planning. It is never too early to start these conversations, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
By planning ahead, you can ensure that your healthcare decisions reflect your values and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
At Cassia Care, your wishes and quality of life are our top priority. Let us help you navigate this important process with the compassion and care you deserve.
Contact us at:
+91 79977 70039
+91 79977 70036
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