What role do families play in MDC1 care planning?

• A. Families determine all medical treatments and orders.
• B. Families provide insights, preferences, support, and assist with goals and outcomes.
• C. Families should not be involved in care planning.
• D. Families are responsible for funding care only.

Answer: (B)

Families act as partners in MDC1 care planning. They provide essential insights into the patient’s values, priorities, daily routines, and what outcomes matter most. That context helps the care team shape goals, weigh treatment trade-offs, and create a plan that is realistic and aligned with the patient’s wishes. Family involvement also offers support, helps with decision-making conversations, and assists with implementing and monitoring the plan, which can improve adherence and satisfaction with care. While clinicians determine the medical treatments and orders, they do so in collaboration with the patient and family, guided by informed consent and the patient’s preferences. Funding and payment decisions are separate responsibilities of the healthcare system and insurers, not the family’s sole role.