Are there any exceptions to the patient or patient representative signature requirement?
Yes, but only one. If the patient is no longer able to make and communicate decisions, and the patient representative is not physically available at the location where the patient is, then the health care professional may prepare the form in consultation with the patient representative by telephone, electronic, or other means. A copy of the prepared form may then be sent via fax or other electronic means to the patient representative, who may then sign the form and send it back to the health care professional. The health care professional must then put the signed copy of the form in the medical record and write the words on file in the patient or patient representative signature block on the original MOST form. While not necessary, a copy of the signed MOST also may be attached to the original MOST. A MOST form is a medical order and does not require the use of witnesses or notarization. Back to top • Is a MOST mandatory? No, as with advance directives, having a MOST is optional (see F
