Advance Directive
Know the difference between an Advance Directive and a POLST. Click here.
A POLST (Physicians Order for Life Saving Treatment) is similar to an advance directive and explains the specific health care measures a person’s wants if they have a terminal illness or injury and are incapable of indicating whether to continue beneficial and life-sustaining treatment, or to remove life support systems.
The person must develop the POLST in collaboration with their Medical Provider while they are able to clearly and definitively express themselves verbally, in writing, or in sign language. It must express the person’s own free will regarding their health care, not the will of anyone else. It does not affect routine care for cleanliness and comfort. This care must be given whether or not there is an advance directive.
In Oregon, the Health Care Decisions Act (ORS 127.505 – 127.660 and ORS 127.995) allows an individual to preauthorize health care representatives to allow the natural dying process if they are medically confirmed to be in one of the conditions described in his or her health care instructions. This act does not authorize euthanasia, assisted suicide, or any overt action to end the person’s life.
PATIENT’S TRIBAL CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONAL BELIEFS. A patient’s Tribal customs and traditional beliefs that relate to death and dying will be respected whenever possible.
PATIENT REVOCATION OF A POLST FORM. A patient may revoke a POLST at any time in accordance with applicable law.
To learn more about what a POLST form is, their purpose and how you can fill one out, please speak to your Yellowhawk primary care provider. They can assist with obtaining the form for you but we are unable to give legal advice.
Yellowhawk want you to be proactive on your health and records, learn more about POLST or an Advanced Directive from OHA here.
Advance Directive Documents