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Table 4 Underlying goals of ACP and corresponding objections

From: Underlying goals of advance care planning (ACP): a qualitative analysis of the literature

Underlying goal

Objections

Respecting individual patient autonomy

Promises more control than is possible; ignores current interests of the patient; denies that decision making is engaged and emotional

Improving quality of care

Risk of ACP to be regarded as moral imperative

Strengthening relationships

Shifts focus away from the patient; risk that children take over too early

Preparing for end-of-life

Risk of ACP to be regarded as panacea

Reducing overtreatment

Pressure to refuse treatment; distrust of the health care system; against nature