Thurs., April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day
The 5th Annual National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) will take place this Thurs., April 16. NHDD serves as a focal point for coordinated State and local events to provide information on healthcare decision-making to the general public and healthcare providers.
In recognition of NHDD, providers, congregations, community-based organizations and law firms are sponsoring educational programs to disseminate information about advance care planning. The New York State Bar Association's Elder Law and Special Needs Section is sponsoring a series of free presentations around the State explaining the legal procedures and documents that help New Yorkers ensure that their preferences concerning health care are honored if they lose the ability to make decisions. Topics include: why you need a will, the differences between living wills and health care proxies and the purpose of a power of attorney. A schedule of presentations, resources and other information is available here.
In addition, on Tues., April 28, LeadingAge New York, together with the Community Hospice and the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York State, is presenting a program featuring the PBS Frontline documentary on Atul Gawande's Being Mortal. The film will be followed by a facilitated discussion, led by Laurie Mante, executive director, and Dr. Paul Heasley, chief mdical officer, of The Community Hospice on empowering patient/residents and families to make difficult decisions. The program begins with a continental breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and a presentation of the film at 8:00 a.m. at the LeadingAge NY offices at 13 British American Blvd., suite 2, Latham. To register, click here.
Contact: Karen Lipson, klipson@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8383, ext. 124