What is the main goal of advance care planning for patients?

The primary goal of advance care planning is to allow patients to express their preferences for medical treatment. This process is crucial for ensuring that individuals have a voice in their healthcare decisions, especially in situations where they may not be able to communicate their wishes due to illness or incapacitation. By articulating their values and preferences regarding medical interventions, patients can guide their care in alignment with their personal beliefs and goals.

Advance care planning also fosters discussions between patients, their families, and healthcare providers, facilitating informed decision-making that respects the patient's wishes. While facilitating organ donation, ensuring insurance coverage, and encouraging family discussions are all important aspects of healthcare and may be part of the broader context surrounding advance care planning, the central focus remains on the patient’s treatment preferences and the respect for their choices regarding their own healthcare journey.