A guide on planning for end-of-life care

Advance care planning is a national programme that allows people to document their medical treatment preferences in advance, in line with their goals and values.

- Isabelle Liew

ADVANCE CARE PLAN

It also allows them to designate up to two people to decide on medical care for them in the event that they become mentally incapacitated.

While not legally binding, the ACP serves as a guide for loved ones and healthcare teams to act according to their best interests. It includes healthcare preferences such as the extent of treatment and pain control options.

Anyone above 21 years old can do an ACP.

Those who are generally healthy can complete their ACP online through the new digital tool called myACP.

It can be found on the My Legacy@LifeSG platform at mylegacy.life.gov.sg

They can also approach public hospitals, polyclinics, or certain social care providers to make such a plan.

Those with existing illnesses, such as cancer or heart failure, will need to complete their ACP with the help of their healthcare team or a certified facilitator.