Advance care planning is the process of thinking about and discussing your future healthcare preferences. It involves making decisions about the types of medical treatment you would want or not want if you become unable to communicate your wishes. This planning can include discussions with family, friends, and healthcare providers. Creating an advance directive is a key part of advance care planning. This legal document outlines your healthcare preferences and can appoint someone, known as a healthcare proxy, to make decisions on your behalf. By engaging in advance care planning, you ensure that your values and wishes are respected in medical situations.