Advanced Care Plan

In British Columbia (BC), an Advanced Care Plan (ACP) is a formal way for individuals to express their wishes about their future healthcare in case they become unable to make decisions themselves. It's part of the province's approach to ensuring that people receive the care they want when they're unable to speak for themselves.

Key Components of an Advanced Care Plan (ACP) in BC:

1. Representation Agreement:

   • A legal document that appoints someone (a representative) to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you're incapable of making them.

   • There are two types:

     • Section 7 Representation Agreement: For basic decisions, including routine financial affairs and health care.

     • Section 9 Representation Agreement: For broader healthcare decisions, including refusing life-support treatment.

2. Advance Directive:

   • A written document where you can specify your wishes for health care treatment directly, without the need for a representative. It gives instructions to healthcare providers about the treatments you consent to or refuse in the future.

3. Temporary Substitute Decision Maker (TSDM):

   • If you haven't appointed a representative or created an advance directive, and you're unable to make decisions, the healthcare provider will choose a TSDM based on a legally prioritized list (such as a spouse, adult child, or parent).

4. Goals of Care:

   • Describes what you hope to achieve with your healthcare (e.g., extending life, comfort, or quality of life), often including preferences regarding resuscitation, life-support, and end-of-life care.

5. End-of-Life Wishes:

   • Preferences about palliative care, where you want to receive care, and whether you want aggressive treatments or comfort measures.

How to Create an Advanced Care Plan in BC:

1. Reflect on your Values and Wishes:

   • Consider your healthcare preferences, values, and beliefs, including what quality of life means to you.

2. Talk to your Family and Healthcare Providers:

   • Discuss your wishes with loved ones and your healthcare team to ensure everyone understands your preferences.

3. Choose a Representative:

   • Appoint a trusted individual who can act as your representative in a legal representation agreement if you can't make decisions.

4. Write an Advance Directive:

   • Clearly outline the healthcare treatments you want or don't want in specific situations.

5. Keep Your ACP Updated:

   • Regularly review and update your plan as your health or personal circumstances change.

6. Share Your Plan:

   • Ensure your family, representative, and healthcare providers have copies of your ACP, so it can be followed when necessary.

In BC, the Advanced Care Plan empowers individuals to have greater control over their healthcare and ensure their wishes are respected in situations where they cannot communicate for themselves.

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