Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a crucial process that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their future healthcare needs. Recognizing the importance of this, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has implemented the National Advance Care Planning via Group Visits (ACP-GV) Program. A vital component of this program is the Advance Care Planning Program Coordinator, who plays a pivotal role in facilitating these essential group discussions and ensuring Veterans and their caregivers are well-informed and supported throughout the ACP process.
The ACP-GV program, facilitated by dedicated coordinators, offers an interactive and peer-supported environment for Veterans and their loved ones to delve into the complexities of planning for future health care. These group visits are designed to encourage open conversations, allowing participants to share personal experiences and collaboratively identify actionable “next steps” in their advance care planning journey. The coordinator guides these discussions, ensuring a safe and informative space for everyone involved.
What exactly does advance care planning entail? It’s a thoughtful process that may involve creating a living will and, importantly, designating a trusted individual to make health care decisions on your behalf should you become unable to communicate your wishes. The advance care planning program coordinator is instrumental in clarifying these aspects, offering guidance and resources to participants regardless of their current health status, age, or prior knowledge of ACP. These sessions are welcoming to all, and attendees are encouraged to bring family members or friends for added support.
The significance of advance care planning becomes particularly evident during times of medical crises. In situations such as severe injury, unconsciousness, or mental health emergencies, having an advance care plan in place is invaluable. It equips healthcare providers, caregivers, and designated decision-makers with the necessary insights into a patient’s preferences, ensuring care aligns with their wishes. The advance care planning program coordinator emphasizes this point, highlighting the peace of mind that comes with proactive planning.
During ACP-GV sessions, guided by the program coordinator, participants may explore key themes such as:
- Reflecting on personal experiences related to making critical healthcare decisions for others.
- Carefully considering the factors involved in choosing a trusted health care decision-maker.
- Defining personal healthcare goals and formulating concrete steps towards completing an advance directive form.
To learn more about advance care planning and to discover the availability of ACP-GV sessions in your vicinity, it is recommended to connect with the Social Work Service or your PACT Social Worker. These professionals work closely with the advance care planning program coordinator to ensure seamless access to this valuable program.
“I am so glad I attended this group. I had no idea about what I could do to make things easier for me and for my family down the road. Completing my advance directive has given me peace of mind.” – Veteran, White River Junction, VT
“My VA providers have asked me about completing an advance directive so many times they have even given me copies of the form! It never made sense to me until I attended an ACP-GV group.” – Veteran, Nashville, TN
“I had the chance to attend a group for myself – with other caregivers in the Caregiver Support Program. The discussion with other caregivers helped me realize that I had been neglecting my own health care planning! I set a goal for myself during group and followed through.” – Caregiver, Houston, TX
To facilitate the advance care planning process, the VA provides essential resources and forms.
| Item | Link | Description |
|---|---|---|
| VA Form 10-0137 VA-Advance Directive | VA Form 10-0137 | This form allows you to formally document your healthcare decisions in advance. The advance care planning program coordinator often refers to this form during group sessions. |
| VA Form 10-0137 (Spanish) – VA Advance Directive (Spanish) | VA Form 10-0137 (Spanish) | A Spanish version of the VA Advance Directive form, ensuring accessibility for Spanish-speaking Veterans. The advance care planning program coordinator can provide information in multiple languages as needed. |
| VA Form 10-0137A -What You Should Know about Advance Directives | VA Form 10-0137A | This resource provides comprehensive information about advance directives, further explained by the advance care planning program coordinator during group visits. |
Further information and documents related to advance care planning can be accessed through VA providers or the Advance Care Planning – Geriatrics and Extended Care website. Non-Veterans seeking information may find resources at https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/.
Engaging in advance care planning is a responsible step for every adult, particularly those managing chronic health conditions. It provides clear guidance for healthcare teams, caregivers, and trusted individuals, ensuring that a person’s healthcare wishes are honored, and that an advocate is designated to speak on their behalf if necessary. The advance care planning program coordinator is a key resource in navigating this important process.
For assistance in joining an advance care planning group discussion or for more details, including group schedules, please contact your local VA Healthcare System ACP-GV Site Lead.
