Advance Directive
Plan ahead for your healthcare. Learn the difference between an Advance Directive and a POLST, and find the forms you need.
Advance Directive / POLST
A POLST (Physician's Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment) is similar to an Advance Directive and explains the specific healthcare measures a person 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 healthcare, not the will of anyone else. It does not affect routine care for cleanliness and comfort.
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 their healthcare instructions. This act does not authorize euthanasia, assisted suicide, or any overt action to end the person's life.
Need Help?
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 wants you to be proactive about your health and records. Learn more about POLST or an Advance Directive from OHA.