Advance Health Directive: Navigating Your Future Health Care with your GP
Health is a journey, and our paths are as unique as we are. But what happens when our health journey encounters uncertainty, especially at times when we might not be able to voice our wishes or make decisions for ourselves?
This is where an advance health directive (AHD) becomes an invaluable tool. It’s a plan that guides your loved ones and healthcare providers on your preferences for medical treatment if you’re unable to communicate those preferences yourself. General Practitioners (GPs) are instrumental in this planning.
Let’s explore how your GP can assist with completing an advance health directive
Understanding advance health directive and care planning
Advance care planning is the process of contemplating, discussing, and documenting your values, life goals and preferences regarding future medical care. The idea is to ensure that if you’re somehow incapacitated, your healthcare team knows your wishes. This thoughtful activity isn’t simply for the elderly or those with chronic illnesses; it’s a wise step for anyone wanting to take charge of their medical future.
The role of your GP in planning your advance health directive
Guidance and information
Your GP can be your first port of call in the journey of advance care planning. With an understanding of your health history and in some instances that of your family, they can guide you through the considerations specific to your circumstances. A GP can explain what advance health directives may mean given your current health status, outline scenarios where an AHD would come into effect, and discuss treatments you may wish to accept or decline in future situations.
Facilitating discussion
Having a conversation about future healthcare can be challenging. Your GP can share thoughts on how to approach the topic with your family, ensuring your wishes are clearly communicated and understood by those who may be making decisions on your behalf someday.
Review and updating
With changes in health conditions, personal beliefs, or life circumstances, your AHD may need revisions. A GP can assist in reviewing and updating your directive, making sure it consistently reflects your current wishes.
Integration into medical records
Once an AHD has been completed, it can be integrated into your medical records. Your GP can help ensure that the document is accessible, both within their practice and in your My Health Record if you have one, to ensure it’s accessible to other healthcare providers who might need it.
View the Advance Health Directive form (Queensland) here.
Advance care directives empower individuals to communicate their health care preferences for potential future situations when they might not be able to voice their decisions. General Practitioners are essential guides in this journey.
By offering personalised information, helping with documentation and integrating the directives into medical records, they can ensure your medical care aligns with your values and wishes.
Your GP is your partner not just for present health concerns but also for future wellbeing and peace of mind.
Have you had a conversation with your GP about your advance health directive? Phone us to book an appointment.