End-of-Life Discussion Uproar Misplaced

Posted on | August 24, 2009 |

Mary Ann Miller

A lot of the furor over health care reform centers on the proposed end-of-life discussions for Medicare recipients.  I completely agree that this shouldn’t happen.  Those discussions need to happen much earlier in life.

I’ve had a living will since I was 31.  As my father lay dying in the hospital and our family was facing treatment decisions, Nancy Cruzan’s family was fighting in court for their decision.  Cruzan was involved in a horrific accident at age 25, and much of the argument focused on the fact that she had never voiced what kind of treatment she would want.

My father’s death presented the occasion for my family to have that discussion.  My mother and I both know what we want and respect each other’s desires, and we both know that we are free to change our minds at any time. 

The fact is that accidents and illness can befall any of us at any time.  You have the right to determine your own care, and you will give your family great peace of mind if they know they are following your wishes.  So have that discussion now.  It’s much easier to talk about these things when you don’t need to.

Mary Ann Miller is the President/CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. Reach her at maryann@tempechamber.org

Comments