What persons are most suitable for using MOLST forms?
Persons of any age (including children) with advanced illnesses, who want to express their preferences about life-sustaining medical treatments.
At what stage of illness is it appropriate to consider using the MOLST form?
This depends on the person and the situation. However, every person with advanced illness or injury should be offered the opportunity to fill out a MOLST form if:
- It is medically appropriate, based on the person's current health condition, and
- The person wants to express preferences about life-sustaining medical treatments.
Should all seniors/elders have a MOLST form, or is there a certain age when the MOLST form becomes appropriate?
First, the MOLST form is not suitable for use by everybody, nor is it for use only with seniors/elders. The MOLST form is typically most suitable for persons of any age with a serious advanced illness. If a patient's current medical condition would prompt a conversation about DNR orders, or if it would not be surprising for the patient to die within the coming year from his/her advanced illness - then a MOLST discussion may be suitable. Second, all persons for whom a MOLST discussions are suitable are not required to use a MOLST form to document that discussion. Ideally, the option of using a MOLST form to document treatment decisions will be presented for consideration to all suitable patients - but a patient’s choice to use the MOLST form must always be voluntary.
Can MOLST forms be used with children/pediatrics?
Yes. If the patient is under 18 years old, his or her parent can sign the MOLST form. In a situation of conflict among the patient’s parents, the decision about who can sign the MOLST form will need to involve legal consultation.