By Shannin Prather
January 2018 | 2018 Winter Newsletter
An advanced directive, often referred to as a “living will” or “health care power of attorney,” is a legal document providing guidance to medical professionals regarding the type of treatment you will allow in the event of a medical emergency when you may be unable to communicate your wishes.
Advanced directives also allow you to direct someone else to make medical decisions for you if you cannot speak for yourself. This person is your “surrogate.” Having an advanced directive is strongly advised for all adults, regardless of age.
In California, another common type of advanced directive is a Physicians Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form. You can request this medical document from your doctor which states your preferences to emergency medical workers (such as paramedics) in the event of a medical emergency.
The POLST form lists your preferences about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using intravenous therapy (IVs), a ventilator, and artificial nutrition given via tube. Filling out a POLST form is voluntary, but if the form has been completed, medical providers are legally required to abide by your requests. The POLST should be considered by individuals with a serious illness or advanced frailty near the end-of-life.
Advanced directives and POLST forms are not the same. The advanced directive is a legal document and the POLST is a medical document. These documents work together to make your wishes known when you cannot communicate for yourself.
Speak to your doctor to learn more about advanced directives and POLST forms.