Vermont Business Magazine The Community Health Team has developed an explainer program that provides support in helping individuals create an advance directive. An advance directive provides documentation and clear instructions for a designated agent to reference on a person’s behalf should they be in a position to where they are unable to make decisions for themselves. “A health crisis can happen at any time and planning ahead is a gift someone can give to their family,” explained Sarah Narkewicz, RN, MS, CDE, Program Director of Bowse Health Trust and Blueprint for Health Manager. “It is important for people to identify someone who can speak for them and to share their wishes should a health crisis occur. Our expert volunteer team is ready to help people solidify these important directives.”
The advance directive program covers a broad range of health care decisions and is accessible, affordable, effective and integrated into the existing health care structures. There is no charge for working with a Community Health Team volunteer to complete and file an advance directive. Volunteers are professional and knowledgeable and are available to help with clarifying any questions that may come up while filling out the Advance Directive paperwork as well as guiding individuals through the process of completing and filing their paperwork. One of the great benefits of the program is once the paperwork is complete the volunteer will file it with the Vermont Advance Directive Registry and make copies to share with family and providers. The entire process can be completed in one appointment.
To schedule a time with one of the Community Health Team volunteers, call 776-5502 or email [email protected]. A volunteer will meet with interested community members at the Community Health Team Office at 71 Allen Street.