It's important for the health team, the patient and the family to work in partnership to discuss medical options and make care decisions centred on the patient's wishes and goals of care.
Some people may choose advanced treatment approaches; others may decide that they don't want to pursue aggressive medical interventions and prefer supportive care. A range of care options may be available, please discuss with your health care team.
Advance care planning is the process of thinking about, and writing down, your wishes, goals of care and instructions for future health care treatment in the event you become incapable of deciding for yourself.
Advance directives are a legal option for capable adults in British Columbia to make their wishes known for their future health care treatment.
For more information about advance care planning, including how to make an advance care plan, name a representative in a Representation Agreement, or to make an advance directive, visit:
Palliative care is a service available for people living with any disease, at any age and at any stage of an illness. You don't need to stop your medical care to receive palliative care.
Palliative care can help with managing symptoms, maximizing quality of life, providing spiritual and psychological support, and discussing goals of care with you and your family. Your health care provider can help you access palliative care services in your community.
