Introduction:

This survey asks about your experience and thoughts in regard to advising clients about advance care planning (ACP).

ACP is a process of communication by which a person can express their values, wishes and preferences for healthcare during future periods when the person lacks capacity to make their own decisions. ACP may involve appointing an agent and/or writing a personal directive.

This survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

What is the reason for doing the study?

Rising rates of chronic disease, our aging population, recent legal events and personal experiences with end of life care have led to increased public awareness about the benefits of ACP and Palliative/End of Life Care. ACP prepares individuals and their families for in-the-moment decision making (even when capacity is not impaired), enables them to take advantage of palliative or hospice resources, leads to fewer aggressive medical interventions at the end of life, reduces the potential for conflict between family members and reduces suffering and distress in bereavement. Yet only 13% of Canadians have completed an ACP.

Lawyers are uniquely positioned to assist clients with ACP. A Saskatchewan survey found that nearly half of people who had a written care plan had sought help from a lawyer to prepare the document, while only 5% had consulted with a doctor.

Our research group has formed a collaboration with CBA (Alberta Branch, Elder, Health and Wills, Estates and Trusts sections), LESA, Office of the Public Guardian and Public Trustee, Alberta Health Services, lawyers, physicians and other stakeholders. We want to learn about the factors that support or hinder lawyers in working with clients on ACP and their needs for resources.

Why am I being asked to take part in this research study?

All practicing lawyers in Alberta, who may have experience in ACP were identified as potential participants. Notice of the survey was delivered via email or through websites, e-newsletters and/or social media from the Canadian Bar Association, Law Society of Alberta and/or Legal Education Society of Alberta.

What am I being asked to do?

If you would like to participate in this study, please complete the following questions. Participation in the survey is voluntary. All responses will be kept anonymous and remain confidential. You may exit the survey at any time however because the survey is anonymous you will not be able to withdraw your answers after submission. Information collected in this survey may be used in reports and academic publications.

Your consent to participate in this research is demonstrated by you completing the survey and clicking on the "submit" button.

What if I have questions?

The plan for this study has been reviewed for its adherence to ethical guidelines by a Research Ethics Board at the University of Alberta. For questions regarding participant rights and ethical conduct of research, contact the Research Ethics Office at (780) 492-2615.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact: Maureen Douglas, Senior Study Coordinator, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta (maureen.douglas@ualberta.ca; (780) 248-5690) or Nola Ries, Study Lead, Health Law Institute, University of Alberta (nolamries@gmail.com). Maureen Douglas and Nola Ries are part of an Alberta Innovates Health Solutions-funded team of researchers and knowledge end-users referred to as the "Advance Care Planning CRIO" research program (www.acpcrio.org)

Thank you!

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