3 critical things health care providers should discuss in serious illness conversations Talking about a serious illness diagnosis and the impact on life expectancy is difficult. Many Canadians are uncomfortable having these conversations, even though they know it is important. Surveys have uncovered this paradox: while 93 percent of Canadians think it is important to have discussions about goals and values related to their health, only 36 percent have done so, and only 18 percent have documented them. As a doctor and a patient, we know these conversations can make a difference to ensure that patients get the care that they want and avoid what they do not. Research shows that early discussions about goals, values, and wishes can improve the quality of life and reduce pain and suffering for a seriously ill person.