In the age of healthcare consumerism, providing more options for engagement is a key factor in driving better patient experiences. Vital Decisions, an Edison-based Advance care plan provider has expanded its telehealth product offering by including video capabilities in it. Health plan members who are eligible for Vital Decisions’ Advanced Care Alignment benefit, and their families, now are able to choose to have video-based sessions from any device with their Vital Decisions clinical Specialist.

The Advanced Care Alignment program is offered to individuals facing a serious illness, and their families, to enable them to engage in a collaborative decision-making process that ensures that the care an individual receives in the last years of life aligns with their values and preferences. Masters-level clinical Specialists, enabled by technology, guide individuals and their families to think through, document, and communicate

Vital Decisions continues to change the way individuals are cared for during the most difficult time of their life

the patient’s personal preferences, wishes and what matters most to them, now and in anticipation of their medical condition changing. For patients, Advanced Care Alignment results in less stress and anxiety, greater family unity and a better quality of life. Families benefit from having a framework for decision-making if their loved one no longer can make decisions for themselves and greater peace of mind during difficult times. The member’s physicians and other care providers receive greater clarity of patient wishes and the type of care to deliver.

“All of us have our own personal stories about a loved one facing advanced illness and the challenges involved. Vital Decisions continues to change the way individuals are cared for during the most difficult time of their life,” says Leah Puccio, President, Vital Decisions. “We are excited to now be offering video sessions for those individuals and their families who prefer more of a face to face setting during their clinical sessions with their Specialist,” he adds.

The Advanced Care Alignment video-based choice is currently available to members of health plans that have chosen to activate this new capability of the program.