Planning end-of-life care when you have COVID-19

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of talking about end-of-life care.

Patient on a ventilator

If you become seriously unwell with COVID-19, do those closest to you know what type of care you would want?

If you haven’t had these importance conversations, start them today. That way, someone will be able to advocate for your care preferences and wishes in the event that you cannot do it yourself. 

While older people and those with chronic conditions are at more risk, no one is protected – meaning everyone should have these conversations. 

Good health care involves understanding people’s preferences and wishes, and developing clear goals of care. While the pandemic has stolen the luxury of time, you can still have these discussions regarding treatment and symptom management. 

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the full article here [opens external link].

Byline

Louise Hickman, University of Technology Sydney; Jane Phillips, University of Technology Sydney; Patricia Davidson, Johns Hopkins University
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