Opinion: While social distancing, do your other patriotic duty: have The Conversation about serious illness care
At no time since World War II has there been a clarion call for the entire nation to do its patriotic duty: in this case, physically distance ourselves from others, often including close family members; avoid leaving home; and even make face masks to protect medical professionals from Covid-19. Another personal step that could help us deal with this catastrophe is for every adult to have what we call The Conversation.
The Conversation is a “goals-of-care conversation,” an honest talk with your family and your health care team. It is a frank conversation about what would be medically achievable for you, physically and functionally, during a health crisis. Let them know if you would want — or want to avoid — treatments like CPR if your heart stops or a ventilator if you can’t breathe for yourself. Tell them what brings you joy, and what brings you comfort during difficult times. Share your hopes. And tell them how you’d like to be cared for when you are dying.
