New National POLST Map

National POLST has published a new map of POLST program designations. National POLST set standards for recognizing POLST Programs as (1) mature, (2) endorsed, (3) active, or (4) unaffiliated. POLST Program leaders must proactively apply for endorsement or mature status.

Mature: This is the highest level of endorsement and reserved solely for programs where use of the POLST Paradigm is statewide part of the standard of care for appropriate persons. This is objectively measured by reviewing regional data (e.g., as defined by established criteria such as EMS, Department of Health, or the Dartmouth Atlas) and confirming that 50% or more of hospitals, nursing homes or nursing home resident population, and hospices in each region use the POLST Paradigm. These programs are actively gathering data for quality assurance programs and have considered centralized POLST form databases.

Endorsed: Program (1) is actively participating in National POLST governance and (2) has developed and implemented a POLST program and form meeting the National POLST standards. Standards include: a single form for the state or territory, program leadership diversity, addressing legal and regulatory issues
related to POLST, and developing strategies for ongoing, statewide implementation, education and quality assurance.

Active: Program is actively participating in National POLST governance and meets with the Program Assistance Committee every two years but is not endorsed. Active programs are at various stages of development, working towards implementing POLST statewide. 

Unaffiliated: Program does not participate in National POLST governance and/or non-conforming (see state or territory page for more information)