MOST (medical orders for scope of treatment) forms

What are my rights?

What's written in my MOST form can never substitute for my direct consent to medical treatment.
  • True
  • False

A MOST form — standing for medical orders for scope of treatment — is a document used in hospitals, residential care and community care settings. It should be used to facilitate a conversation with your doctor about your values and wishes for careYou may encounter a MOST form when you’re chronically ill or near end-of-life, and major health care decisions are looming. Learn what they are and how they impact your rights.  

“My Mom entered residential care last year. She expressed a general preference to receive medical attention at the care home when possible. The doctor noted this in a MOST form. When Mom got pneumonia, legally, the care home still had to check in with her about whether she wanted to be treated at the hospital. The MOST couldn’t be used as a blanket directive for her care.”

– Jorge, Vancouver, BC

What you should know

Steps you can take

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in June 2019
  • Time to read: 5 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Kevin Smith, Retired lawyer and consultant

Kevin Smith

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