Announcing a Revolutionary AI-Powered Tool for End-of-Life Planning
Fiona, accessible via phone or computer, engages users in empathetic dialogue to guide them through the complex process of creating an Advance Directive (also known as a “Living Will”). Within minutes, users receive a personalized, legally valid document outlining their end-of-life care preferences.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HOUSTON, Aug. 27, 2024
Fully Informed Conversations, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing end-of-life planning, today announced the launch of Fiona, a revolutionary AI-powered virtual advisor designed to help individuals create comprehensive Advance Directives through natural conversation.
Fiona, accessible via phone or computer, engages users in empathetic dialogue to guide them through the complex process of creating an Advance Directive (also known as a “Living Will”). Within minutes, users receive a personalized, legally valid document outlining their end-of-life care preferences.
"End-of-life planning is crucial, but often overlooked due to its complexity and emotional nature," said Dr. Roberta B. Ness, Executive Director of Fully Informed Conversations. "Fiona removes barriers by making the process accessible, comprehensive, and free for everyone."
The creation of Fully Informed Conversations and Fiona stems from Dr. Ness's personal experience with end-of-life care. In 2023, Dr. Ness lost her husband of 40 years, David, to Alzheimer's disease. David, a psychiatrist who cherished language, chose to end his life through voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED). The family's struggle to navigate this process, marked by misinformation and medical rejection, revealed significant gaps in end-of-life care resources.
"Our painful journey highlighted the urgent need for better resources and support for those facing end-of-life decisions," Dr. Ness explained. "I vowed to create a comprehensive resource to help others prepare more effectively for the end of life. That's how Fully Informed Conversations was born."
Dr. Ness brings a wealth of experience to this initiative. She is a physician, former dean of a major school of public health, and a member of the National Academy of Medicine. Her numerous accolades include Presidential appointment to the Mickey Leland Center for Environmental Research and two of the most prestigious lifetime achievement awards in her field.
According to recent studies, only about one-third of American adults have completed an Advance Directive. Fully Informed Conversations aims to dramatically increase this number by eliminating common obstacles such as cost, time, and lack of guidance.
Utilizing advanced natural language processing, Fiona adapts to each user's unique situation and values. The service prioritizes user privacy, immediately deleting all personal data after document generation.
In addition to Fiona, Fully Informed Conversations offers a wealth of resources on end-of-life topics, including FAQs on Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED) and Medical Aid in Dying (MAID). The organization also provides a second virtual advisor, Victor, who can answer questions about VSED and MAID in a similarly conversational, empathetic way.
"Our goal is to provide a treasure trove of tools and resources for ending life gracefully," Dr. Ness stated. "We believe that everyone deserves to have fully informed conversations about their end-of-life choices."
Fiona is now available to the public at no cost. Individuals can access the service by calling (828) 436-6537 or visiting www.fullyinformedconversations.org.
About Fully Informed Conversations:
Fully Informed Conversations is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to expanding and enhancing Advanced Care Planning conversations. By providing accessible, free support and comprehensive resources, the organization aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their end-of-life care. Founded by Dr. Roberta B. Ness in response to personal experience with the challenges of end-of-life planning, the organization strives to improve end-of-life care for all.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Stephen Torrence
Technology Director
stephen@fullyinformedconversations.org