What is the difference between an advance directive, living will, or POLST form?

To learn more about the different types of forms, watch the video called “About Advance Directive Forms” on the PREPARE for THEIR Care homepage. This video goes over all the different types of forms and how they are different.

Is POLST called something else in other states?

In other states, POLST may be called other names, such as POST, MOST, MOLST, or be in different colors. In many states the form is pink.

Most states have POLST forms, but some states do not. Ask your medical providers about the POLST form in your state.

Is an advance directive the same thing as a POLST form?

There are big differences between advance directives and POLST forms.

• An advance directive is a form that YOU fill out about your medical decision makers and your medical wishes. An advance directive can be completed by an adult at any age or stage in health.

• The POLST form is a medical ORDER that ONLY a doctor or medical provider fills out. That form is only about life sustaining treatment, such as CPR or going to the hospital, and has checkboxes. That form does not allow you to name a decision maker. The POLST form is meant for very sick people near the end of their life.

• The National POLST Paradigm website is a good place to learn more about POLST.

This video is also a great way to learn about POLST.

To learn more about the different types of forms you can watch the video called “About Advance Directive Forms” on the PREPARE for THEIR Care homepage.

Where can I learn more about POLST forms?

The National POLST Paradigm website is a good place to learn more about POLST.

This video is also a great way to learn about POLST.

To learn more about the different types of forms you can watch the video called “About Advance Directive Forms” on the PREPARE for THEIR Care homepage.