[Study of 4 patients implemented to Advance Care Planning].

ABSTRACT

This is a study of 4 patients implemented to Advance Care Planning (ACP) reflecting on the health care professionals' role and the outcomes. ACP has been defined as a process of formal decision making that aims to help patients establish their decision about future care that take effect when they lose capacity. For about two years, we tried to engage all patients who were referred to our palliative care team and their families to ACP since their first consultation. We informed their conditions at that time, how their health might change and how treatment might impact on their life goals. We also attempted to help patients' decision making and then fulfill their wishes in cooperation with patients' families and healthcare professionals. We learned three important elements understanding patients' values and wishes, explaining prediction of the clinical course of the patients and establishing a collaborative healthcare team in order to fulfill the patients' hopes. ACP improved quality of life (QOL) not only for the patients involved, but also for the family members. ACP can play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the care they want throughout various stages of their lives.