Utah POLST: How It Works and Who Should Have One

Introduction to Utah POLST

A Utah POLST, or Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, is a medical order that outlines your wishes for end-of-life care. It is a crucial document that ensures your healthcare providers understand your treatment preferences.

The POLST form is typically used for individuals with serious illnesses or those who are nearing the end of life. It is essential to have a POLST in place to avoid unnecessary medical interventions and to ensure that your wishes are respected.

How Utah POLST Works

The Utah POLST form is completed by your healthcare provider, who will discuss your treatment options and preferences with you. The form outlines specific medical interventions, such as CPR, ventilation, and feeding tubes, and indicates whether you want to receive them.

Once the form is completed and signed, it becomes a medical order that must be followed by all healthcare providers. This ensures that your wishes are respected, even if you are unable to communicate them yourself.

Who Should Have a Utah POLST

A Utah POLST is recommended for individuals with serious illnesses, such as cancer, heart disease, or dementia. It is also suitable for those who are nearing the end of life or have a limited life expectancy.

Additionally, individuals who have strong feelings about end-of-life care, such as those who do not want to receive certain medical interventions, should consider having a POLST in place. It is essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider to determine if a POLST is right for you.

Benefits of Having a Utah POLST

Having a Utah POLST in place can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. It ensures that your wishes are respected and that you receive the care you want, even if you are unable to communicate.

A POLST can also help to avoid conflicts between family members and healthcare providers, as it clearly outlines your treatment preferences. This can reduce stress and anxiety during an already difficult time.

Creating a Utah POLST

To create a Utah POLST, you should discuss your options with your healthcare provider. They will help you complete the form and ensure that it is signed and dated.

It is essential to review and update your POLST regularly, especially if your medical condition changes or your treatment preferences shift. This ensures that your wishes are always respected and that you receive the care you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

A POLST is a medical order that outlines your treatment preferences, while a living will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for end-of-life care. A POLST is typically used in conjunction with a living will.

Yes, you can change your POLST at any time by discussing your wishes with your healthcare provider and updating the form. It is essential to review and update your POLST regularly to ensure that it reflects your current wishes.

No, a POLST is not the same as a DNR order. A DNR order only indicates that you do not want to receive CPR, while a POLST outlines your wishes for a range of medical interventions.

A POLST form must be completed by a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner. They will discuss your treatment options and preferences with you and ensure that the form is signed and dated.

Yes, a POLST is a legally binding medical order that must be followed by all healthcare providers. It is essential to ensure that your wishes are respected and that you receive the care you want.

While a POLST is typically recommended for individuals with serious illnesses, anyone can have one. If you have strong feelings about end-of-life care, you may want to consider having a POLST in place, regardless of your current health status.