Most Americans believe it's important to have a record of their healthcare preferences available, should they become unable to share that information. That's why Tower Health supports National Healthcare Decisions Day, which takes place on Sunday, April 16.
National Healthcare Decisions Day was created to encourage all individuals to put their personal healthcare wishes in writing, in the event that a future illness or injury renders them unable to speak for themselves. It's important to share those wishes with loved ones and with medical providers so crucial decisions can be made appropriately. Healthcare organizations and civic groups throughout the country support this initiative.
"Medical emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, leaving them without the ability to voice their wishes,” said Vinti Shah, DO, Chief, Division of Palliative Medicine at Reading, Phoenixville, and Pottstown Hospitals. “If you are ever in a situation where you cannot speak for yourself, having this document completed could help your family and medical designee feel a sense of peace should they need to make a medical decision for you. After your document is complete, I encourage you to have a conversation with the individual you designate as your decision-maker, and explain your wishes in advance. Also remember to share it with a member of your medical care team so it can be scanned into your MyTowerHealth account.”
Individuals can receive a free "Five Wishes" document, which will help with advance care planning. Email advancecareplanning@towerhealth.org to receive your free copy by mail.
Learn more by watching this advance care planning video.
About Tower Health
Tower Health is a regional integrated healthcare system that offers compassionate, high-quality, leading-edge healthcare and wellness services to communities in Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties. With approximately 11,500 employees, Tower Health consists of Reading Hospital in West Reading; Phoenixville Hospital in Phoenixville; Pottstown Hospital in Pottstown; and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, in partnership with Drexel University. Tower Health is strongly committed to academic medicine and training, including multiple residency and fellowship programs, the Drexel University College of Medicine at Tower Health, and the Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences in West Reading. The system also includes Reading Hospital Rehabilitation at Wyomissing; home healthcare provided by Tower Health at Home; TowerDirect ambulance and emergency response; Tower Health Medical Group; Tower Health Providers, our clinically integrated network; and 25 Tower Health Urgent Care facilities across our service area. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.