In the January 24th edition of the Times-Argus, we talked about the importance of putting an advance-care plan in place and shared advice from our Hospice & Palliative Care Team Manager, Jim Budis, pictured, about how to embark on this process.
Here is a list of additional resources and relevant forms.
Vermont Ethics Network A VT-based organization that is committed to promoting ethics in healthcare. The VT Ethics Network also provides education for individuals, families, and healthcare professionals about the importance of talking about and documenting healthcare decisions. You can find links to the following free, downloadable forms on the VT Ethics Network’s website:
- Appointment of a Health Care Agent
- Advance Directive Short Form and Advance Directive Long Form
- DNR/COLST Order
Start the Conversation Another local, Vermont-based initiative that aims to help you start the conversation with your family and loved ones. There is information about available end-of-life care options, tools to help you get the conversation started (even with those loved ones who are resistant to this conversation), and links to resources to document your wishes.
The Conversation Project An initiative that offers tools, guidance, and resources to encourage people to talk with their loved ones about their goals of care. This website has resources to help you start conversations with your family and your physician and has lots of videos that will help you prepare to start the conversation for yourself.
National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) A national organization that represents hospice and palliative care providers and which works to expand access to “person-centered models” for healthcare. Hospice provides patients and their loved ones with comfort, peace, and dignity, and the NHPCO website provides a wealth of information about hospice and palliative care.
Most local medical group practices in our area are staffed with social workers and other individuals who can help you start your advance care planning journey.
If you have any questions about the advance-care plan process, please feel free to call CVHHH at 802-224-2215. We are here to help and will connect you with the right resource.