In HEDIS terminology, what does "advanced care planning" involve?

Advanced care planning in HEDIS terminology specifically refers to the process of discussing and documenting patients’ preferences for end-of-life care. This conversation often encompasses various critical decisions, including preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, palliative care options, and overall goals of care. The aim is to ensure that healthcare providers are aware of and can honor the wishes of patients when they are unable to communicate these preferences themselves.

This focus on end-of-life discussions is crucial because it enhances the quality of care for patients, ensuring that their choices are respected and that they receive treatment aligned with their values and desires. In the context of HEDIS measures, advanced care planning is a key component as it plays a significant role in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction, particularly in serious illness scenarios.

In contrast, reviewing medical history, scheduling follow-up appointments, and assessing patient readiness for treatment do not encompass the essence of advanced care planning. While these actions are important in comprehensive patient care, they do not specifically address the critical discussions surrounding patients' values and preferences for their end-of-life care.