DocumentLibrary
This library provides downloadable forms and resources to help individuals communicate their health care wishes clearly and legally. These documents support planning for future medical decisions, appointing a health care representative, and ensuring treatment preferences are respected across care settings.
Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care
A legal document that allows individuals to appoint a Health Care Agent and specify treatment preferences for end-of-life care.
This document allows you to:
- Appoint a Health Care Agent: Designate someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to communicate or make decisions yourself.
- Specify Treatment Preferences: Outline your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, comfort care, and other end-of-life decisions to guide your care team and loved ones.
This form combines the functions of a living will and a durable power of attorney for health care into one document. Completing it helps ensure your medical care aligns with your values and relieves your loved ones from making difficult decisions without guidance. It is recommended that you discuss this form with your physician, family members, and the person you appoint as your health care agent.
Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST)
A medical order that outlines a seriously ill or frail patient's preferences for life-sustaining treatment.
This document allows you to:
- Translates treatment preferences into medical orders that must be followed by all health care providers across settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, EMS, and hospice.
- Clarifies wishes about resuscitation (CPR), intubation, artificial nutrition, and other critical interventions.
- Travels with the patient to ensure continuity of care and respect for their choices, whether at home, in the hospital, or in another care facility.
The POLST form complements, but does not replace, an advance directive. It is especially important for patients who want to ensure their treatment preferences are honored during an emergency. Completion of a POLST form requires a conversation with a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who will sign the order.