What does POLST stand for?

POLST stands for Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. This approach is designed to help patients communicate their preferences regarding end-of-life care in a clear and actionable manner. It ensures that healthcare providers honor the wishes of patients regarding medical interventions that they do or do not want at various stages of their health, particularly in critical situations. The emphasis on "physician orders" signifies the medically binding nature of these directives, differentiating it from advance directives that may not carry the same level of immediate authority or specificity. This form of communication is crucial in emergency situations, where treatment preferences must be quickly understood and acted upon by medical professionals.