St. Bernard Health Center’s Social Worker, Sharon Marie Chester, LCSW will discuss the important role that Advance Directives and a living will can play in personal health care planning.

An Advance Directive provides clear guidelines as to what types of medical care a patient would like if they become terminally ill or are in a persistently unconscious state. A living will is one form of advance directive, giving specific instructions about treatment. Under Louisiana law, an Advance Directive can be taken back or cancelled at any time.

Ms Chester’s presentation will focus on the importance of informing family, friends and medical professionals about your personal health care wishes if you are no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity. Making these decisions before an emergency occurs, and making sure that your family and friends are aware of your decisions, can help eliminate confusion and provide comfort and dignity to both patients and their families.

The discussion about Advance Directives is free to the public and everyone is welcome to attend.