MT Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment POLST 2019-2026

What is the Montana Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST)?

The Montana Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) is a medical order that outlines a patient's preferences for end-of-life care. This form is designed for individuals with serious illnesses or advanced age who wish to ensure that their treatment preferences are respected by healthcare providers. The POLST serves as a legal document that communicates a patient's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation and artificial nutrition. It is essential for ensuring that healthcare providers understand and follow the patient's desires in critical situations.

How to Use the Montana POLST

Using the Montana POLST involves several key steps. First, patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their healthcare provider. This conversation should cover various scenarios, including resuscitation efforts and the use of life-sustaining treatments. Once the patient and provider agree on the orders, the POLST form must be completed and signed by the provider. It is important to keep the original POLST form in a visible location, such as on the refrigerator or in a medical file, to ensure it is easily accessible during emergencies.

Steps to Complete the Montana POLST

Completing the Montana POLST involves a straightforward process:

• Schedule a discussion with your healthcare provider to talk about your treatment preferences.
• Review the POLST form, which includes sections on resuscitation, medical interventions, and comfort measures.
• Fill out the form with your provider, ensuring all sections accurately reflect your wishes.
• Sign and date the form, along with your healthcare provider's signature.
• Distribute copies of the completed POLST to your healthcare team and keep a copy for yourself.

Legal Use of the Montana POLST

The Montana POLST is a legally binding document when completed correctly. It must be signed by a licensed healthcare provider to be valid. This form is recognized under Montana law, ensuring that healthcare providers are obligated to follow the instructions outlined within it. However, it is crucial to understand that the POLST is not a substitute for an advance directive or living will; rather, it complements these documents by providing specific medical orders for emergency situations.

Key Elements of the Montana POLST

The Montana POLST includes several key elements that guide healthcare providers in delivering care according to the patient's wishes. These elements typically include:

• Resuscitation preferences (e.g., Do Not Resuscitate, full resuscitation)
• Medical interventions (e.g., preferences for hospitalization or intensive care)
• Comfort measures (e.g., pain management and palliative care options)
• Patient and provider signatures to validate the document

State-Specific Rules for the Montana POLST

Montana has specific regulations governing the use of the POLST form. These rules ensure that the form is used appropriately and that patients' rights are protected. For instance, the POLST must be completed in consultation with a healthcare provider, and it should be reviewed periodically to reflect any changes in the patient's health status or preferences. Additionally, healthcare facilities and emergency responders are trained to recognize and honor the POLST, which reinforces its legal standing in medical settings.