Program Recognition

Then known as the National POLST Paradigm Task Force, National POLST first formally convened in 2004 to establish quality standards for POLST Programs and to assist states in developing their programs.

In establishing its criteria for endorsement, the NPPTF used consensus building to describe the POLST process, based on their experiences in implementing POLST Programs.

Periodically, National POLST updates endorsement criteria based on research evidence regarding the POLST process, POLST forms and quality assurance information. Endorsed programs include only those that have proven that their POLST Program and POLST form meet National POLST standards.

Once endorsed, states may work towards further recognition as “mature.” In addition, endorsed programs are reevaluated every 3 years to confirm that they still meet all the requirements for endorsement.

View map of U.S. with state-by-state information about each POLST program.