The Art of Goodbye: Communication Considerations

Upfront discussions about expectations could potentially offset or defuse future problems.People are frequently at a loss for the best way to begin a discussion about end-of-life concerns with loved ones and health care providers and are also unsure of the topics they should cover. Nonetheless, conversations about end-of-life care and advance directives can help ensure that the person’s wishes are honored. These measures also eliminate much of the difficult decision-making that loved ones typically face at the time of their loved ones’ passing. This 5-page fact sheet, part of a new series entitled The Art of Goodbye, discusses the barriers to discussing the end of life and the process of communication with loved ones and health care providers. Written by Suzanna Smith, Lynda Spence, and Chelsea Tafelski, and published by the UF Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, October 2016.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1470

Understanding the Changes to the Patient’s Bill of Rights as a Result of the Affordable Care Act

older male patient in hospital gown smiles up at medical providerThe Affordable Care Act is a legislative act that has provided individuals and families more choices related to healthcare insurances. It offers consumers new protections and benefits by creating a more defined Patient’s Bill of Rights. This 2-page fact sheet was written by Deanna Andrews and Martie Gillen, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1410

FCS7238/FY1106 Managing in Tough Times: Downsized – Maintaining Your Access to Health Care

FCS7238, a 3-page fact sheet by Michael S. Gutter and Selena Garrison, describes the rights that people have for insurance continuation and portability under COBRA and HIPPA, and strategies people might use for paying for unplanned health care coverage expenses. Published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2009.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/FY1106