We recently started a community conversation regarding the use of advanced directives in Howard County, so Jason Lieborwitz's recent commentary "Don't wait until it's too late to discuss your medical care" (April 22) was a very timely read.
In our conversations, diverse residents admitted that the barriers to advanced directives are many and often deeply-felt. People feel life is too busy or that the topic is too uncomfortable to discuss.
We also heard that many people have oral conversations with family members to informally convey their wishes and are left thinking that conversation will suffice.
In addition, people have profound fears of the unknown, particularly when the top involves committing themselves to what may be premature death if there's the possibility of a medical miracle.
Some believe that an advanced directive might conflict with their faith. Others simply do not trust that medical providers will provide them with appropriate care, despite their wishes.
As Dr. Liebowitz notes, "it's never too early to plan for the future." The Horizon Foundation is exploring ways to assist these conversations so that our residents have the opportunity to take control of end-of-life decisions by clearly stating their preferences and thus creating piece of mind for their family members.
Nikki Highsmith Vernick, Columbia
The writer is president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation.