Knowledge is power when making difficult decisions. Once a terminal diagnosis (illness with no known cure) is determined, physicians must review treatment options. These include either a curative approach (treatment to cure) or palliative approach (treatment for comfort) with the patient and family. After thorough discussion, the right to accept or refuse those options should be acknowledged and carried out as requested.
Common Concerns
Physical and emotional issues surface at this delicate time. Patients may express concerns about finances, treatment options, quality of life and family adjustments in addition to concerns about their own perceptions regarding how fate and faith tie into what has happened.
Suggestions for People Diagnosed with a Terminal Illness
Write down questions, no matter how simple, about the terminal diagnosis and possible treatments and discuss them with your physician.
- Discuss your views regarding your life and future expectations.
- Involve as many support people as you are comfortable with.
- Discuss estate planning with your family and an attorney.
- Explore alternative healthcare options.
- Try to identify possible family conflicts as early as possible.
- Leave a legacy. Share your feelings, memories, expectations and values with your loved ones.
Advanced Directives (Power of Attorney, Living Will)
Physical and emotional issues surface at this delicate time. Patients may express concerns about finances, treatment options, quality of life and family adjustments in addition to concerns about their own perceptions regarding how fate and faith tie into what has happened.