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Radiocast: Making End-Of-Life Treatment
Decisions
Debra: This is Healthcare 411: Information for better health. Many of us
don’t have an advance directive, a legal document that conveys decisions about
end-of-life care. But this is a vital document, explains AHRQ Director Dr.
Carolyn Clancy:
Dr. Clancy: There is a living will, which describes the kinds of medical
treatments you would want or not want should you become incapacitated. A durable
power of attorney allows the patient to designate someone who will be in charge
of health care decisions. And finally, a Do-Not-Resuscitate order, or DNR,
outlines what measures should or should not be taken on your behalf in events
such as cardiac or respiratory arrest. But one of the most important parts of
advance planning is talking about your wishes - both with family members and
your doctor. Talking about our concerns and worries - and then taking steps to
address them - remains solid advice throughout life, even as we anticipate its
end.
Debra: Healthcare 411 is produced by AHRQ, the Agency for Healthcare
Research and Quality, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
I’m Debra James for Healthcare 411.
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