National Advance Care Planning Day reminds Islanders to talk about their future health care wishes

April 16 is National Advance Care Planning Day, a day for Islanders to have a conversation about wishes and values for their future health care. 

This year’s theme is Advance Care Planning: An Essential Conversation for Everyone. 

Advance Care Planning is about having discussions with close family, friends and health care providers so that they know the health care treatment you wish to have or refuse if you become incapable of expressing your own decisions. It includes developing an Advance Care Plan, which documents your beliefs, values and wishes of your health and personal care preferences.

“It is important for everyone to have an Advanced Care Plan no matter your age or health condition. This is not always an easy conversation to have, but using the tools and resources available through Health PEI makes these tasks much easier.”

- Health and Wellness Minister Ernie Hudson

On April 16, Islanders are encouraged to set aside time to speak with loved ones about their Advanced Care Plan. 

“Advance Care Planning has become a topic of conversation among more Islanders in recent years, especially in these unprecedented times as we deal with the impacts of COVID-19,” said Dr. Mireille Lecours, Provincial Palliative Care Medical Consultant. “It is more important than ever to stay connected to loved ones regardless of distance, and to have conversations about what is important to you, when you think about the future.”

Media Contact:

Jessica Bruce    

Senior Communications Officer, Health PEI

jessicabruce@gov.pe.ca