In preparation for the upcoming implementation of an electronic POLST registry, California physicians are urged to participate in a POLST Provider Knowledge Survey by Sept. 30, 2024. This survey is being conducted by the Coalition for Compassionate Care of California and the Emergency Medical Services Authority.

Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, or POLST, is a legally recognized document, similar to the widely used "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) orders. The POLST form, used for patients with a serious illness or whose life expectancy is a year or less, outlines a plan of care reflecting the patient's wishes concerning medical treatment and interventions at life's end. The POLST form complements an advance directive by turning a patient's treatment preferences into actionable medical orders. POLST kits and more information are available in the CMA Store.