What should clients do to communicate treatment preferences to their doctors?

Having open discussions with healthcare providers and ensuring that treatment preferences are documented in medical records is the best approach for clients to communicate their wishes effectively. This allows for a clear understanding of the client’s values and desires regarding their treatment options. Open dialogue between clients and doctors fosters a therapeutic relationship, where concerns can be addressed, questions can be answered, and options can be thoroughly explored.

Documentation in medical records serves as a formal acknowledgment of the client’s preferences and ensures that these wishes are accessible to all healthcare professionals involved in the client’s care. This practice helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that the treatment provided aligns with the client's wishes, especially in critical situations where the client may not be able to communicate their preferences directly.

In contrast, keeping preferences private would likely lead to confusion and misalignment between the client’s desires and the treatment provided. Documenting preferences without discussion does not give the healthcare provider the necessary context to understand the client’s views. Relying on family members to communicate intentions can lead to errors or misinterpretations, as family members may not fully grasp the client’s wishes or may introduce their own biases. Thus, proactive communication and proper documentation are essential components of effective advance care planning.