Wisconsin Catholic Conference speaks out on POLST and medical directives

Wisconsin Catholic Conference released an important statement about end of life care in Wisconsin

A POLST form presents options for treatments as if they were morally neutral. In fact, they are not. Because we cannot predict the future, it is difficult to determine in advance whether specific medical treatments, from an ethical perspective, are absolutely necessary or optional. These decisions depend upon factors such as the benefits, expected outcomes, and the risks or burdens of the treatment.

A POLST oversimplifies these decisions and bears the real risk that an indication may be made on it to withhold a treatment that, in particular circumstances, might be an act of euthanasia. Despite the possible benefits of these documents, this risk is too grave to be acceptable.

Finally, the design and use of the POLST document raises concerns as to whether it accurately reflects and protects a person’s wishes. Concerns surrounding the current POLST form used in Wisconsin include:

• the lack of a patient signature acknowledging that the form truly represents a person’s choices; 
• potential conflict with current Wisconsin law and/or other advance care directives (for example, use by minors or their guardians, or use during pregnancy);
• the absence of a conscience clause that protects facilities or practitioners, which cannot follow a POLST treatment order due to the institution’s or person’s moral, ethical, or medical concerns; and
• the immediate effect of the document, even when a person is receiving non-emergency treatment.

Due to the serious and real threats to the dignity of human life that POLST and all similar documents present, we encourage all Catholics to avoid using all such documents, programs, and materials. The POLST form should not be regarded as the standard model for designating treatment preferences.

The whole statement at WCC

It is very good to see the WCC issue a clearly worded pro-life statement.  Actually, I'm not sure if I've seen one this clear on a pro-life issue.  There were three statements issued last year; immigration, conceal to carry, and Catholic schools.  The very few times the group has made a pro-life statement it has been very muddied; ala abortion mentioned on the same level as environmental ecology.  Like I said though, this is great to get clarity on a pro-life issue from the WCC. 

Bishop Callahan on A Closer Look with Sheila Liaugminas on POLST orders.

Pro-Life Wisconsin applauds WCC

American Life League supports