These documents are appropriate for patients who both are seriously ill and have a life expectancy of less than one year. Several states offer MOST/POST documents as an addition to other documents concerning one's healthcare in the final stages of life. You are not required to have a MOST/POST document, but it is advisable to have one to ensure quality care during the last phases of your life.
The MOST/POST document is flexible because it is recognized by any health care provider and health care providers at any level or any location. It is important because the MOST/POST is consulted when you are unable to make decisions regarding your healthcare in the final stages of life.
It's important to remember that a POST/MOST document does not take the place of a Living Will or a Health Care Power of Attorney document. However, a MOST/POST document is still advisable to have because the guidelines for your healthcare are communicated by you through the document, and it is in a format that healthcare providers recognize.
Before you issue your MOST/POST, you should have a qualified physician review and approve your document. You must also consent to the MOST/POST before any step outlined in the document can occur.
States that support this program have different information and requirements needed to acquire a MOST/POST form. You should check with your state's healthcare program to see if they provide this resource, and if so, what you will need to get a MOST/POST. The states that provide online information are listed below. You can also visit Center for Ethics in Health Care, Oregon Health & Science University, for more information about the program.
California
Colorado
Hawaii
Idaho
Louisiana
Massachusetts
New York
North Carolina
Oregon
Tennessee
Utah
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
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This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.
