Advance Care Planning: Assisting patients in making informed decisions about their treatment preferences and end-of-life care.
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Planning with Purpose: Advance Care Planning at Columbus Regional
When you’re facing a serious illness—or simply planning for the future—having clear, honest conversations about your healthcare wishes is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your loved ones. At Columbus Regional Healthcare System, our Palliative Care Program offers compassionate support through Advance Care Planning, helping patients make informed decisions about their care before a medical crisis occurs.
It’s not just about preparing for the end of life—it’s about making sure your care reflects your values, goals, and priorities every step of the way.
What Is Advance Care Planning?
Advance Care Planning is the process of thinking through and documenting your healthcare preferences—so that if you become seriously ill or unable to speak for yourself, your medical team and family know exactly what kind of care you want.
This includes:
- Deciding the types of treatments you would or wouldn’t want (like CPR, ventilators, feeding tubes, or dialysis)
- Choosing a healthcare power of attorney—someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf
- Creating legal documents like a Living Will or Advance Directive
These conversations can be difficult, but they’re also empowering. They ensure your voice is heard, your wishes are respected, and your family has peace of mind.
Who Should Have an Advance Care Plan?
Everyone. Whether you’re healthy, managing a chronic condition, or receiving treatment for a serious illness, having a plan in place:
✅ Reduces stress for your loved ones
✅ Prevents unnecessary or unwanted treatments
✅ Improves coordination and clarity among care teams
✅ Gives you greater control and peace of mind
It’s especially important if you:
- Have a life-limiting or progressive illness
- Are at risk of hospitalization or surgery
- Have experienced a medical emergency in the past
- Want to avoid aggressive treatment at the end of life
How We Help at Columbus Regional
Our Palliative Care team is here to guide you through the Advance Care Planning process with compassion, clarity, and no pressure. We can help you:
- Reflect on your goals and values
- Understand the options available for treatment and comfort care
- Have meaningful conversations with family members
- Complete the appropriate documents
- Update your plan over time, as your health or preferences change
We work closely with your medical team to ensure your care plan is known, respected, and followed.
When Should You Start?
The best time to start advance care planning is before a health crisis occurs. It’s a conversation that should evolve over time—not something left until the last moment.
Even if you’re healthy, having these discussions early helps everyone involved feel more prepared and confident.
Why Choose Columbus Regional?
- Compassionate palliative care professionals trained in guiding delicate conversations
- A supportive, no-judgment environment
- Collaboration with your full care team for seamless communication
- A commitment to dignity, autonomy, and patient-centered care
- Resources and tools to help you and your family make thoughtful decisions
Your Care. Your Voice. Your Plan.
Advance Care Planning isn’t about giving up—it’s about stepping up to shape your care in a way that’s meaningful to you. At Columbus Regional Healthcare System, we’re here to walk with you through these important choices—so you can live with clarity, and your loved ones can carry your wishes with confidence.
To schedule a conversation about Advance Care Planning, contact our Palliative Care Program today.
Because planning ahead is an act of love—and it starts with a conversation.