Pennsylvania House Bill HB1212

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/23
• Refer: 5/19/23

Caption

In general provisions relating to health care, further providing for applicability, for definitions, for criminal penalties, for emergency medical services, for definitions, for orders, bracelets and necklaces, for revocation, for absence of order, bracelet or necklace and for emergency medical services, repealing provisions relating to advisory committee and providing for discontinuance and for Pennsylvania orders for life-sustaining treatment; and making editorial changes.

Impact

The introduction of HB1212 is expected to have a profound impact on state health care laws by enhancing the existing regulations surrounding advance health care directives and out-of-hospital do-not-resuscitate orders. The bill replaces the prior system with POLST, aiming to overcome limitations in existing directives by providing a clear and actionable medical order that is applicable in any health care setting. This shift is seen as a way to better align medical interventions with patients’ wishes, enhancing patient care and dignity at the end of life.

Summary

House Bill 1212 focuses on creating a framework for Pennsylvania Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST), which offers individuals the ability to express their treatment preferences in a legally binding format that applies across health care settings. The bill emphasizes the need for a standardized POLST form to convert patient wishes into action based on individual goals for medical treatment. By allowing these orders to be effective in various care environments, including emergency services, the bill aims to ensure that patients' choices are respected regardless of their ability to communicate those preferences during critical moments.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB1212 appears to be generally positive among health care advocates and organizations who see it as a necessary update to ensure that all individuals can maintain their autonomy over health care decisions, even when they become unable to communicate. Proponents argue that having a standardized form for life-sustaining treatment will prevent confusion and enhance the quality of end-of-life care. However, there may be concerns expressed by those wary of potential abuses or misunderstandings related to POLST, especially regarding patient consent and the ethical implications of life-ending decisions.

Contention

Despite the broad support for enhancing patient autonomy, there are important points of contention, particularly regarding the implementation of POLST. Critics might worry that reliance on such forms could lead to oversimplified interpretations of patient wishes. Additionally, the bill must ensure that health care providers are trained adequately to discuss and implement POLST orders without coercion, as well as to recognize and respect the changing wishes of patients over time. The potential financial incentives related to POLST completion rates for health care providers could also spark debate on ensuring that patient care remains the priority.