A MOLST form allows patients with a serious advanced illness to inform health care professionals about the medical treatments they want or don’t want in a serious illness care situation. These treatments can include intubation and ventilation, artificial nutrition and hydration, CPR, and more.
A MOLST form is not the same as a health care proxy. A health care proxy form names the person who can make medical decisions on one’s behalf in the event of incapacity. MOLST forms are for people who want to list specific medical instructions for life-sustaining treatments now or in the near future. Of course, the health care agent named in a health care proxy should be included in conversations about MOLST.
How It Works
When deciding whether or not to complete a MOLST form, one should discuss all of the following with a medical professional (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant), family members, the health care agent, and any other loved ones:
- Current medical condition and prognosis
- Possible risks and benefits of available treatments
- Goals for care provided
- Personal values
Next, the patient fills out and signs the MOLST form, with their medical professional. The completed MOLST form will instruct all health care professionals, in any clinical situation, about the use of life-sustaining treatments based on the patient’s specified wishes. You can see a sample Massachusetts MOLST form here.
MOLST to POLST Transition
It is worth noting that Massachusetts is transitioning from the MOLST form to a national POLST model. Don’t worry, this transition is not expected to take effect until sometime in 2026. In addition, there will be an extended period of time where MOLST forms will be honored even after the implementation of POLST.
As always, I am here to help you accomplish all of your estate planning goals and ensure your wishes will be carried out.
Until next time, take care…