National Health Decision Day
April 16, Wednesday
History of the holiday
National Health Care Decision Day was first observed in 2008 by the Coalition for Compassionate Care and is supported by various government and public organizations, medical institutions, and professional associations.
The date of the celebration, April 16, was chosen to coincide with Tax Day in the United States, in order to emphasize the inevitability and importance of planning.
How it is celebrated
Educational events. Organizations and medical institutions hold seminars, lectures, and webinars on the importance of advance health care directives.
Free consultations. Many lawyers and medical institutions offer free consultations on this day on the preparation of powers of attorney and living wills.
Awareness campaigns. Materials about medical directives and instructions for completing them are distributed in hospitals, clinics and public spaces.
Open discussions: People are encouraged to start a dialogue with loved ones about their wishes regarding medical care, especially in cases of serious illness or approaching the end of life.