Having a Say: National Healthcare Decisions Day

There are moments in life when families gather around kitchen tables, hospital beds, or living room couches to talk about what matters most. These conversations are not always easy. They can bring uncertainty, emotion, and even hesitation. Yet they are some of the most meaningful discussions we can have.

Each year on April 16, National Healthcare Decisions Day encourages individuals and families to think ahead and talk openly about their healthcare wishes. Planning in advance helps ensure that medical care reflects personal values and goals, especially during serious illness or at the end of life. At Gilchrist, we believe these conversations are not only about medical decisions. They are about dignity, peace of mind, and supporting the people we love.

Why Advanced Care Planning Matters

Many people assume healthcare decisions only need to be made in a crisis. In reality, planning ahead can reduce stress, prevent confusion, and help families feel more confident when difficult moments arise. These steps help ensure that a person’s wishes are clearly understood and respected. Advance care planning can include:

• Choosing a healthcare decision maker or medical power of attorney
• Completing advance directives or living wills
• Talking with loved ones about preferences for treatment or comfort care
• Sharing goals and values that guide medical choices

Having A Say

One of the most loving things you can do for yourself or someone you love is to make sure everyone’s wishes are known, but starting the discussion can feel overwhelming. Some people worry about saying the wrong thing or bringing up a topic that feels uncomfortable. However, many families find that once the conversation begins, it leads to a deeper connection and understanding. These conversations do not have to happen all at once. They can unfold over time, growing more detailed as families learn and reflect together. Simple ways to start include:

• Asking loved ones what quality of life means to them
• Talking about past experiences with illness or caregiving
• Sharing personal wishes about medical care
• Reviewing advance directive forms together

How Gilchrist Supports Advance Care Planning

At Gilchrist, we provide guidance and resources to help individuals and families navigate advance care planning. Our experienced team of nurses, social workers, and chaplains can assist in discussing options and ensuring that your healthcare preferences are documented and respected. We offer resources such as:​

• My Directives – A digital platform to create and store your advance care plan.​
• Maryland MOLST – A medical order form covering options for life-sustaining treatments.
• A Healthcare Agent Form –  a legal document that allows an individual to appoint a trusted person to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so themselves.
• Five Wishes – A national advance care planning program providing a comprehensive approach to documenting your wishes.​

Join Our Free Virtual Session

In recognition of National Healthcare Decisions Day, Gilchrist is hosting a free virtual educational session to help individuals and families feel more prepared to begin advance care planning.

During this session, participants will learn:

• How to talk with loved ones about healthcare wishes
• How to clearly document and share a care plan
• Who should be involved in decision-making
• Answers to common questions during a live Q&A

The session will feature Gilchrist experts:

• Dr. David Wu, Senior Advisor, Education & Outreach Resources
• Katie Nelson, PhD, RN, Palliative Care Education & Outreach Specialist
• Tracie Schwoyer-Morgan, DNP, ANP-BC, Director of Palliative Medicine Support Services
• Cathy Pauley, LCSW-C, APHSW-C, Program Manager, Home-Based Palliative Medicine

Registration closes April 14, and the virtual link will be distributed April 15.

A Gift of Clarity and Compassion

Talking about future healthcare decisions may feel difficult, but it can be one of the most caring actions we take for ourselves and those we love. By sharing wishes ahead of time, families can focus less on uncertainty and more on being present with one another.

At Gilchrist, we are honored to help guide these conversations every day. National Healthcare Decisions Day serves as a reminder that planning is not about fear. It is about living with intention, clarity, and compassion.

Resources related to advanced care planning are also available at https://gilchristcares.org/resources/advancecareplanning/