POLST: starting the conversation

A meaningful discussion begins with the person, not the form. Ask what matters to the patient, what they understand about their illness, and who they trust to speak for them if they cannot speak for themselves.

POLST means Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. It translates appropriate treatment preferences into medical orders. The conversation should be individualized, informed by the patient’s condition, and revisited when health or goals change. Use the current California form and provider instructions.

Updated editorial summary · September 2026