MIRAMAR, Florida—In recognition of National Healthcare Decisions Day (April 16), VITAS Healthcare, a national provider of end-of-life care, said it is calling on Americans to take an important step: document their health care goals and wishes before a crisis occurs.
VITAS will host a free educational webinar designed for health care professionals and community members alike. The session offers one complimentary continuing medical education or continuing education credit, equipping clinicians with tools to guide meaningful conversations about advance directives and care planning.
The Advance Directives and Advance Care Planning webinar will take place Wednesday, April 15 at 1:00 p.m. ET. Interested participants can register at VITAS.com/Webinars.
"Too often, these conversations happen in moments of crisis, when patients may no longer be able to share their wishes," said Heather Veeder, regional medical director at VITAS. "Advance care planning gives people a voice in their care and provides clarity for families and clinicians. It is one of the most important steps we can take to ensure care reflects what matters most to each individual."
The webinar will explore how clinicians can integrate advance care planning into routine practice, normalize conversations about serious illness and help patients document their preferences clearly and effectively.
In partnership with the Florida Hospital Association, VITAS will also host a joint webinar on April 16 focused on strengthening advance care planning conversations across Florida's health care system. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to improving patient-centered care through earlier, more consistent dialogue.