14 Apr National Healthcare Decisions Day: Make Your Wishes Known
April 14, 2026 ~ Each year on April 16, National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) serves as a powerful reminder to take control of your future health care. This national initiative exists to inspire, educate, and empower individuals to think about and document their health care wishes before a crisis occurs.
At Triage Cancer, we know that planning ahead is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, especially when navigating cancer.
Why Advance Care Planning Matters
Advance care planning is the process of thinking about what matters most to you and making decisions about the care you would want if you were unable to speak for yourself.
This often includes completing advance health care directives, which can:
- Outline the types of medical care you do or do not want
- Name someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf
- Provide guidance to your loved ones and health care team
Without a plan in place, family members may be left making difficult decisions without knowing your preferences. While most people agree this planning is important, far fewer have actually taken the steps to document their wishes.
Practical Steps You Can Take Now
In honor of NHDD, here are a few steps you can take today:
- Start the Conversation
Talk with your loved ones about your values, priorities, and preferences for care. These conversations can feel difficult, but they are essential. - Put It in Writing
Complete estate planning documents, including an advance health care directive. These tools help ensure your wishes are followed. - Share and Revisit Your Plan
Provide copies of your documents to your health care providers and trusted decision-makers, and revisit them over time as your preferences or circumstances change.
Explore Triage Cancer’s Estate Planning Tools
If you are not sure where to begin, Triage Cancer offers free Estate Planning Resources designed specifically for individuals facing cancer. These resources break down complex legal topics into clear, manageable steps and help you understand what documents you may need and how to complete them.
Triage Cancer’s State-Specific Estate Planning Toolkit contains comprehensive information about the estate planning process, along with printable documents for each state, all in one place. In addition, our Chart of State Laws can help you better understand the estate planning laws that apply in your state.
From advance health care directives and powers of attorney for financial affairs, to broader estate planning considerations, these tools are designed to help you take action with clarity and confidence.
Go Deeper: Learn at the Triage Health Conference
Taking the first step is important, but understanding how these pieces fit together can make your plan even stronger.
Join us at the Triage Health Conference on May 15 and 16 to build on what you’ve started.
At the Conference, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Learn about estate planning essentials, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney
- Understand how legal, financial, and health care decisions intersect
- Gain practical tips for navigating insurance, employment, and financial challenges
- Hear from experts who can help you take the next steps with clarity and confidence
Estate planning is not just about end-of-life decisions. It is about maintaining control, protecting your rights, and making sure your wishes are honored throughout your health care journey.
Take Action This April
National Healthcare Decisions Day is a reminder that planning ahead is an act of empowerment.
Whether you are newly diagnosed, in treatment, or supporting a loved one, having a plan in place can reduce stress and provide clarity during difficult times.
This April, take the first step:
- Start the conversation.
- Document your wishes.
- Continue learning.
About Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit providing free education to people diagnosed with cancer, caregivers, and health care professionals on cancer-related legal and practical issues. Through events, materials, and resources, Triage Cancer is dedicated to helping people move beyond diagnosis.
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