How To Use LaPOST

The LaPOST document, the advance directive (living will) and the power of attorney for health care each have a different purpose.  
  • The LaPOST document is recommended for patients who have life-limiting disease and irreversible conditions and whose life expectancy is less than one year.  The document must be completed by the patient (or their personal health care representative) and his/her physician and represents the patient's plan for medical care.  The LaPOST document is complementary with advance directives as it can operationalize the living will into a physician order.
  • altThe advance directive document (living will) is the most restrictive.  It only goes into effect if the patient has lost decision making capacity (unable to speak for himself/herself) and is terminally ill (certified by two physicians).  It is usually completed in advance of illness. The document can be very specific or very vague.  It requires two witnesses but does not need to be notarized.
  • All patients, but particularly those who are chronically ill, of advanced age or nearing the end of life, are encouraged to complete a power of attorney for health care document.  This document allows a patient to appoint someone he/she trusts to make decisions for him/her in any circumstance regarding health care when the patient is unable to make those decisions. The document requires two witnesses but does NOT need to be notarized.
Of the three documents, the LaPOST form is the one that is most likely to make sure that the patient receives the treatment that he/she wants because it is a medical order.  For patients who are chronically ill, of advanced age or nearing the end of life, who have life limiting and irreversible illnesses, it would be appropriate to complete all three documents.  Family members as well as the appointed health care power of attorney should be well aware of the patient's treatment wishes and goals of care to avoid disagreements during critical times.