What is the aim of advance care planning in heart failure patients?

The aim of advance care planning in heart failure patients is to ensure that treatment is aligned with patient preferences. This process involves discussions about the patient's values, goals, and wishes regarding their healthcare, especially in the context of serious illness such as heart failure. By engaging in advance care planning, healthcare providers can better understand what matters most to the patient, which ensures that the care they receive reflects their desires, particularly when they may be unable to communicate these preferences in the future.

This approach promotes shared decision-making between the patient and healthcare team, leading to more personalized and appropriate care. Advance care planning is particularly crucial in heart failure, where patients may face complex treatment choices and varying trajectories of their condition. By focusing on patient preferences, advance care planning enhances the quality of care and can improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.