What is it?
- IPOST stands for Iowa Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment. It communicates and directs your care in a medical crisis.
- IPOST is a recognizable and standardized state form that gives people control over the treatments they want.
- Completing the IPOST form is voluntary, and it belongs to you.
- A copy will not be kept as part of your healthcare provider’s medical record.
Why have an IPOST form?
- You can lift a burden from those you love by completing an Advance Directive and IPOST form.
- When seriously ill, an IPOST offers you and your loved ones assurance that you will receive the treatments you want.
- You can also direct what treatments you do not want to have.
How is it used?
- In a medical situation, IPOST directs emergency staff, such as First Responders, EMTs, Paramedics, and Providers to the type of care you do or do not want.
- IPOST orders show what treatments you want now, in your current state of health.
IPOST overview
- IPOST form belongs to the patient.
- IPOST form is a medical order, recognized statewide.
- IPOST can be completed by any individual, regardless of age, who has a chronic or serious medical condition or who is frail and elderly.
Who completes and signs the IPOST form?
- You and your healthcare provider will talk about choices you have. A health care provider must sign the IPOST form.
- You may discuss your wishes with a social worker, nurse, or trained facilitator who will help you complete the form and then have it signed later by your healthcare provider.
- If you are unable to speak for yourself, your healthcare agent or representative can speak on your behalf.
The IPOST form asks for information about:
- Your medical conditions
- Whether or not you want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR - a lifesaving method used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It is used in many emergencies, such as a heart attack or near drowning).
- Whether or not you want to be on a breathing machine
- Use of antibiotics in your treatment
- IV fluids and/or tube feeding
What if I change my mind?
- The IPOST can be reviewed, changed, or voided at any time.
- • Contact your health care provider’s office at any time if you want to make changes to your IPOST.
Where do I keep my IPOST form?
- The IPOST form goes where you go−at home, the hospital, or long-term care facility.
- At home−keep on refrigerator. EMS personnel are trained to look for it there.
- During your hospital stay or at health care facilities−it’s kept on the medical chart and then returned to you upon discharge. The IPOST form will travel with you.
TO LEARN MORE:
Ask your healthcare provider.
Regional Family Health: 563-927-7777
Regional Medical Home Care: 563-927-7303
IPOST Form