Topics in planning for advanced cancer care
Advanced care planning begin with having open conversations with your loved ones about
yourwishes and goals for care.
planning for your family
Careful planning reduces the financial, legal, and emotional burdens your family will face after you're
gone. For many people, it's hard bringing up these subjects. But talking about them now can avoid
problems later.
complete advance directives
If you have not done so already, it's important to fill out advance directives. These are legal papers
that tell your loved ones and doctors what to do for you if you can't tell them yourself. Making these
decisions now keeps you in control of how you want to be treated, and who you choose to be in charge of
your care. By filling out advance directives, you're making your wishes known for all to follow.
clear up insurance issues
Contact your health insurance company if you decide to try a new treatment or go into hospice. Most
insurance plans or medical aids cover hospice. They may also cover brief home visits from a nurse or
carer several times a week, but it's wise to ask in advance. This may prevent payment problems later.
put your affairs in order
You can help your family by organising records, insurance policies, documents, and instructions. You may
want to call a lawyer or financial planner to make sure you have taken all the right steps in doing
these things. Your bank can answer questions about how to change accounts and credit cards. Other steps
to take may be:
- Make a list of where your family can find important papers.
- Keep your papers in a fireproof box or with a lawyer.
- If your papers are in a safety deposit box, make sure that a family member or friend has access to
the box.
- Although original documents are needed for legal purposes, give family members photocopies if you
feel that this is appropriate.