05/29/2015

Bill Would Establish MOLSTs in Ohio

Senate Bill 165, introduced this month by Sen. Peggy Lehner (R – Kettering), would authorize Ohioans to establish patient-centered end-of-life legal documents known as MOLSTs (medical orders for life-sustaining treatment).

Like “do not resuscitate” (DNR) orders and advanced directives, MOLST forms are designed to clarify patients’ wishes when they are unable to communicate them. However, unlike current end-of-life documents, MOLSTs are completed and signed by a physician in consultation with the patient and are designed to be less vague and more relevant to a variety of possible medical scenarios.

If the legislation is enacted, Ohio would join many other states that have authorized MOLSTs or are in the process of adopting them.

SB 165 has been referred to the Senate Civil Justice Committee. Ohio ACEP has not taken a position on the bill, but will be watching its progress closely since its provisions could potentially affect Ohio’s emergency physicians.