To the Editor:

The Princeton Senior Resource Center (PSRC) is very pleased to learn that Medicare has decided to cover people’s conversations with their physicians on healthcare decision-making. PSRC is participating in the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, “Conversations of a Lifetime” that aims to bring advanced care planning conversations to New Jersey communities. Princeton was selected by New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute as one of three communities to pilot this initiative. Participating organizations, including PSRC, Princeton Public Library, Goals of Care, and Princeton Health Care System are presenting programs to educate the public and health professionals about the importance of planning and having these conversations with family and doctors.

PSRC staff are leading workshops to help people complete healthcare directives, facilitating a group called “Conversations on Being Mortal,” and assisting individuals with their questions. These programs will help people age 18-plus prepare for having these important conversations with doctors and family so they can confidently know how to make decisions that are consistent with their wishes when they are unable to do so.

Susan W. Hoskins LCSW

Executive Director, PSRC