Are faxed, copied, or electronic versions of the DNR Identification/POLST considered legal and valid?

The statement that faxed, copied, or electronic versions of the DNR Identification/POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) are considered legal and valid is accurate because these versions are typically recognized under state laws that support electronic medical records and advance directives. Many states have adopted regulations allowing such forms to be legally binding, as they align with initiatives to modernize healthcare processes and improve access to patients' wishes regarding end-of-life care.

This recognition stems from the understanding that the purpose of DNR orders and POLST is to reflect the patients' wishes in a way that healthcare providers can readily access and implement. As technology evolves, regulations have adapted to ensure that patients' rights and wishes are upheld, even when documented in non-traditional formats.

The legality of electronic documents, including faxed and copied forms, contributes to their validity across many situations, allowing for effective communication of critical medical treatment decisions.