Policy

In Massachusetts, the MOLST process and form is supported as a “standard of care for communicating patient preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment options” by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Boards of Registration in Medicine, Nursing and Physician Assistants. 

Premise of MOLST
MOLST is based on a foundation of ethical and legal principles aimed to promote patient-centered care.

Patient Self-Determination Act
The United States Congress passed this legislation to encourage Americans to put their preferences for life-sustaining medical care into writing.

DPH Letter Adobe PDF
In its February 2010 “Circular Letter: DHCQ 10-02-529”, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boards of Registration in Nursing and Physician Assistants, and Board of Registration in Medicine support the use of the MOLST process and form to meet the “standard of care for communicating patient preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment options.” The letter also encourages health professionals to honor valid MOLST forms as bona fide medical orders.

HIPAA
Although the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) allows health care providers to access MOLST information when necessary for treatment, patients should know about this federal privacy rule that gives Americans more control over their health information.