The MOLST form, commonly referred to as DNR – “Do Not Resuscitate”) is a form that documents a patient’s treatment preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment. It provides very specific instructions and is used in a variety of health care settings.
This form can be part of Advance Directives or a Living Will which describes various life-threatening situations and the type of treatment the patient prefers for each scenario. The MOLST form typically applies to patients with serious conditions who are 1) terminal, 2) require significant long-term care, and/or 3) want to avoid any or all life-sustaining treatment.
A Healthcare Power of Attorney should accompany the Advance Directives and/or MOLST form because it designates who has the authority to make decisions in accordance with these established preferences and actually confers the power upon that agent to do so.
These documents should be consistent with one another in order to clearly articulate the patient’s wishes. It is also advisable to review these documents annually.
For more information on Healthcare planning documents, please contact Stouffer Legal at 443-470-3599 in the Greater Baltimore area.
