Advance Care Planning

Preparation for end-of-life care involves a continuum of services, with advance care planning typically the initial step.  Advance care planning plays an essential role in the patient’s decision-making process regardless of the type of care chosen, and can be provided to a broader population and far in advance of palliative care for patients without serious illness.  However, advance care planning is included as a component of palliative care for patients with serious illness.