New Jersey Assembly Bill A2001

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment Form Registry.

Impact

The implementation of the POLST Registry is anticipated to significantly affect the way healthcare professionals access and honor patients’ treatment preferences during emergencies. By establishing a centralized system for storing POLST forms, emergency care providers will be able to immediately access critical information on a patient's wishes, facilitating better compliance with their healthcare desires. This system aims to reduce confusion and improve the quality of care provided during critical moments. Additionally, the registry's annual updates and audit capabilities ensure ongoing compliance and integrity of the data maintained within it.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2001 aims to establish the Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Registry in New Jersey. The bill mandates the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to create a Statewide electronic registry that will facilitate the access and storage of POLST forms. This initiative would allow individuals, particularly those with advanced or terminal medical conditions, to formally document their preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, ensuring that their wishes are respected during medical emergencies. The POLST forms can be submitted electronically or via postal mail, retaining compliance with federal and state privacy laws.

Contention

Notable concerns surrounding Bill A2001 include ensuring the privacy and security of sensitive patient information within the POLST Registry. Critics have emphasized the importance of maintaining stringent privacy protections against unauthorized access or breaches. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the voluntary nature of POLST form completion, as it could lead to potential disparities in advance care planning among different demographic groups. Therefore, the law's implementation must balance accessibility with strong safeguards to protect individuals' rights and preferences.