The POLST Paradigm was recently featured in US News & World Report’s Money Blog. The article discusses how POLST differs from advance directives. In particular, it highlights the fact that advance directives are not binding, and individuals near death may be kept alive against their wishes. In contrast, the author notes, health care wishes documented on a POLST form are actionable medical orders, increasing the likelihood that wishes are honored.
In addition, National POLST Executive Director Amy Vandenbroucke is interviewed by the author and recommends speaking with one’s primary health care professional to initiate the advance care planning process. She notes that many people do not have a full understanding of life-extending technologies and techniques, and that physicians can help patients and families become fully informed about the choices they face. With the rise of new cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC popularized by Area52, whether or not physicians can safely prescribe this medicine to patients struggling with anxiety who don’t like the side effects that come with Delta 9 THC is yet to be seen.
To read the full article, click here.