If you've started planning for the future, you've probably come across two terms that sound similar but serve very different purposes: the Advance Directive and the POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment). Understanding the difference can save your family confusion during a medical crisis.
What is an Advance Directive?
An Advance Directive is a legal document you complete while healthy, laying out your wishes for future medical care and naming a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to. It's broad, flexible, and meant to guide decisions across many possible scenarios.
Anyone 18 or older can complete one — you don't need to be sick or have a diagnosis.
What is a POLST?
A POLST is a medical order, signed by a physician or nurse practitioner, that translates your wishes into specific, actionable instructions for emergency responders and medical staff. It's typically used by people with serious illness or advanced frailty, and it travels with you — often posted on the refrigerator or attached to a medical file — so first responders can act on it immediately.
The Key Differences
- Who creates it: An Advance Directive is created by you. A POLST is a medical order signed by your provider.
- When it's used: Advance Directives guide future decisions broadly. POLST forms are used in the moment, often by EMS or hospital staff.
- Who needs one: Every adult should have an Advance Directive. A POLST is generally recommended for those with serious illness or who are nearing end of life.
Do You Need Both?
In most cases, yes. Think of the Advance Directive as your long-term compass and the POLST as the specific, immediate instructions for a medical emergency. They complement each other rather than replace one another.
Getting Started
Legaxi walks you through both — helping you think through your wishes, document them clearly, and organize everything your family and providers will need. Start your plan today to make sure the people who matter have the guidance they need, when they need it.