RT Book, Section A1 Widera, Eric A1 Smith, Alexander K. A2 Walter, Louise C. A2 Chang, Anna A2 Chen, Pei A2 Harper, G. Michael A2 Rivera, Josette A2 Conant, Rebecca A2 Lo, Daphne A2 Yukawa, Michi SR Print(0) ID 1180013651 T1 Goals of Care & Consideration of Prognosis T2 Current Diagnosis & Treatment Geriatrics, 3e YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 9781260457087 LK accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1180013651 RD 2024/04/23 AB Goals of care discussions provide a broad framework for decision making, helping align patients’ underlying values and hopes with the realistic and achievable options for care given the current medical circumstances. This is no easy task, however, as patients and their family members may simultaneously express multiple goals for their health care, which may include maintenance of independence, prevention of illness, prolongation of life, relief of suffering, and maximization of time with family and friends. The relative importance placed on each goal may change over time as new information is shared with the patient or family, such as a new diagnosis or a worsening prognosis. These goals should serve as a guide from which patients and their physicians can develop specific plans for treatment when dealing with acute or chronic illnesses.