Advanced Care Planning: Take Control of Your Healthcare, Anywhere in the World

Scenario 1: With Advance Care Planning

Imagine you are in the hospital, unable to speak for yourself. You feel weak, but you are at peace—because months ago, you had already shared your wishes with your doctor and family. You chose who would make decisions for you, and you were clear about what kind of care you wanted. Now, your loved ones are not arguing or second-guessing. They know exactly how to honor you. The doctors follow your plan with confidence, and your family can simply focus on being present with you, not burdened with guilt or confusion.

Scenario 2: Without Advance Care Planning

Now imagine a different situation. You are in the same hospital bed, but this time, you never had the chance—or perhaps never felt ready—to talk about what you would want. Your loved ones are gathered around, but instead of calm, there is tension. One insists, “Do everything to keep them alive,” while another says, “They once told me they didn’t want this.” Doctors wait for direction, but no one is sure. In the middle of your silence, others must decide for you. And instead of peace, the moment is filled with confusion, conflict, and heartbreak

Advanced Care Planning (ACP) is the process of deciding in advance how you want to be cared for if you become too sick or unable to speak for yourself. It ensures that your healthcare reflects your values, beliefs, and priorities, giving both you and your loved ones peace of mind.

Why ACP Matters

Life is unpredictable. Serious illnesses or accidents can happen at any time. ACP allows you to:

• Clearly communicate your healthcare preferences.

• Reduce stress, confusion, and conflict for your family.

• Ensure that your cultural, religious, and personal values guide your care.

• Avoid unwanted medical interventions that may not align with your beliefs.

How ACP Works Around the World

• Western Countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia): ACP is well-established with legal recognition. Advance directives, living wills, and healthcare proxies are enforceable, and hospitals actively support ACP discussions.

• India: The Supreme Court recognizes living wills for terminally ill patients, but awareness is low. Families often guide decisions, influenced by cultural and religious beliefs.

• UAE: ACP is emerging, especially in urban hospitals. Decisions often combine family guidance, medical advice, and religious considerations, though formal legal enforceability is limited.

• Asia, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America: Practices vary widely, with many regions relying on family-centered decision-making rather than formal legal documents. Awareness is growing globally, but culture and religion remain central.

Key Components of ACP

1. Reflect on Values and Priorities
   Consider what matters most—independence, comfort, dignity, spiritual practices, or quality of life. Include cultural or religious considerations, such as dietary restrictions, rituals, or preferred care settings.

2. Document Your Wishes (Advance Directives)
   Writing a living will or advance directive formalizes your preferences, guiding doctors and family when you cannot speak for yourself.

3. Appoint a Healthcare Proxy or Surrogate
   Choose someone you trust who understands your values and can advocate for your care.

4. Discuss Openly with Loved Ones and Doctors
   Transparent conversations reduce confusion, align expectations, and make decision-making easier during stressful times.

5. Review and Update Regularly
   Life circumstances, health conditions, and beliefs may change. Revisiting your plan ensures it remains accurate and aligned with your values.

How ACP Brings Peace

• Peace for You: Knowing that your choices are documented and respected brings emotional calm and confidence. You can focus on living fully without worrying about uncertainty or future conflicts.

• Peace for Your Family: Clear guidance reduces stress, guilt, and disagreements, allowing loved ones to support you confidently.

• Peace in Care Decisions: Healthcare providers can make timely decisions aligned with your wishes, creating a smoother experience in emergencies.

When and How to Start

• Start Early: Even when healthy, give yourself time to reflect on priorities.

• Be Honest: Consider what truly matters—comfort, independence, spirituality, or cultural practices.

• Seek Guidance: Doctors, counselors, or spiritual advisors can help clarify options.

• Document and Share: Record your wishes formally if possible, and share them with family and healthcare providers.

Advanced Care Planning is not about anticipating death; it is about living confidently and peacefully, knowing your care will honor your values, beliefs, and culture—anywhere in the world. Those who plan ahead often experience inner calm and reassurance, because they know their wishes are clear, respected, and will guide those they love.

Written by Anu Ismail (Creator of Sanuverse)