Today, April 16th, is National Healthcare decision day. Do you have your healthcare wishes down on paper? Have you talked with your loved ones about what those wishes are?

We should all be mindful of the burden placed on loved ones when decisions have to be made in a medical crisis. It is the worst possible time to have to make decisions. If you've put your wishes on paper it takes the burden off your loved ones and help ensure your wishes are followed.

But just getting them on paper isn't enough. That document has to be easily accessible to health care professionals providing your care. If you are at the hospital at 9:00 on Saturday night and the document is in your doctor's office, it won't do you much good. If you're traveling out of your home area and have an emergency you need to have the document with you.

I encourage people to have an envelope with health history and healthcare wishes, including a Durable Medical Power of Attorney. Keep a copy in your car's glove compartment and one in your suitcase. Then no matter where you are, you have a copy with you. It is the only way to be sure your wishes are followed.

If you need a Durable Medical Power of Attorney form you can get them on line or at Woodland Hospice. Just call 989-773-6137 and we're happy to mail one out. Your attorney can also help.

For more information on National Healthcare Decision Day check out http://www.nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org/