POLST and advance directives work together
Two different documents. One goal: care that reflects your wishes.
Begin with an advance directive
An advance directive records preferences and can name a person to make health decisions if you cannot. Discuss your values with that person and your care team.
When to discuss POLST
California POLST means Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. It translates treatment preferences into medical orders for people with serious illness or advanced frailty. It is voluntary and should be completed through a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Keep the conversation current
Revisit decisions when health or preferences change. Give your decision-maker and clinicians access to the documents. Use the current California POLST forms and instructions, including available translations.
Sources & further reading
General educational information. Discuss individual care decisions with your healthcare team.