To the editor:

Thank you for publishing the Sunday editorial “Informed choice” to help debunk the “death panel” image that advance care planning has received. Advance care planning is not about limiting or rationing care; it’s not about hastening death; it’s not about having choices made for the patient; and it’s not about saving money.

Advance care planning does involve understanding your possible future health care choices, thinking about your choices in light of what is important to you and your values, talking about your decisions with loved ones and your doctors, writing down your plans in advance directives so they will be ready if needed.

It is important to remember that your plans and advance directives can be changed as your situation or wishes change. Advance care planning is done over time and in not a single conversation. Decisions like these are best considered before there is a health crisis, and changes to your plans can be made at any time. Planning ahead for your health care, now, while you are able to, is a gift you can give to yourself and to those you love.