ROCKPORT — April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day, sponsored by The Conversation Project, which was created by Boston Globe columnist Ellen Goodman and Atul Gawande. 

April 16 was chosen since Benjamin Franklin said that only death and taxes are assured, according to The Conversation Project, in a news release.

On this day, all Americans are encouraged to consider their end-of-life treatment decisions, discuss them with their families and healthcare providers, and document them in an Advance Directive.  

“It is important to select a health care proxy that is willing and able to carry out your wishes should you be unable to speak for yourself in a healthcare emergency,” said the Project. “Every individual over 18 should have an advance directive. Anyone with a diagnosis of a serious or chronic illness should consider discussing their treatment preferences with their healthcare provider, as well.”

MaineHealth has information about advance care planning on its website, including an approved Maine advance directive form.

Most Knox and Waldo County libraries have advance directive forms on hand in honor of National Healthcare Decisions Day, according to the Project.

Other resources: www.compassionandchoices.org/