It is hard to imagine ourselves in a situation where we don’t have the ability to make sound decisions regarding our health care. Yet planning for a time when we might not be capable of making important medical decisions is crucial for each of us. It is something people of all ages should be thinking about. Having an advance directive in place can be extremely beneficial, as it allows you to select a significant other, family member, or friend as the decision maker regarding health care issues should you become unable to make medical decisions.
This year National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) has been extended to a week-long event throughout the third week of April. In recognition of this, Rutland Regional Medical Center and the Community Health Team will be holding a discussion on this very topic, April 18, from 6-8 p.m. at the Rutland Country Club, 275 Grove Street. Eva Zivitz of Rutland Regional’s Palliative Care Program will review the forms used in Vermont to document healthcare wishes and will walk participants through the process of completing them. Volunteer explainers from the Community Health Team will be available to assist those who are interested in making an appointment for assistance in completing an advance directive. Refreshments will be provided.
