The Benefits of Advance Care Planning

Your goals of care and quality of life may change over time. Advance care planning is how you share your values, wishes and beliefs about the care you want to receive if you become seriously sick or injured.

When is the right time for advance care planning? 

Advance care planning is not just for older adults or people with serious illnesses. Advance care planning is best introduced early and should be an ongoing process of respecting the choices that you make for yourself.

Why should I make an advance care plan?

People who discuss their preferences with their families and doctors:

• Have less fear and anxiety.
• Feel they had more ability to influence and direct their medical care.
• Believe that their doctors have a better understanding of their wishes.
• Report strengthened relationships with family and friends.

The more you speak up, the better your health care can be.

How do I start an advance care plan?

Advance care planning is tailored to your needs. Here are some ways to prepare for a conversation about creating your plan:

• Think about what matters most to you.
• Who should speak on your behalf if you are unable to speak?
• Does this person know what kind of care you want or do not want if seriously ill?
• What matters most to you about end-of-life care?

Talking and writing down what matters to you with family and friends provides them with peace of mind that they will make the right decisions for you.

What documents are involved with advance care planning?

The Advance Health Care Directive and the Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) are the official forms that document your right to give instructions about your health care.

Talk with your primary care provider about care goals and treatments, and other care planning documents that may need to be completed.

How can I start my advance care planning?

Here are ways you can get started with advance care planning:

• Speak with your primary care provider.
• Start talking about what you want.
• Sign up for an advance care planning class and invite your family to attend with you.

You can register online to take an advance care planning class with Hawaii Pacific Health.

For more information on advance care planning, visit HawaiiPacificHealth.org/Services/Advance-Care-Planning/ or KokuaMau.org, Hawaii’s trusted source for advance care planning information.

Published on: July 28, 2025