Comfort Care Program
Frequently Asked Questions
How does one quality for the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
How does one obtain this document?
I already have a Living Will and an Advance Directive, why do I need an EMS Comfort Care Order?
What if my physician signs the EMS Comfort Care Order and I change my mind?
What cost are associated with enrolling in the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
What if my physician is not aware of the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
What is the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
The EMS Comfort Care Program is the name of the program authorized by DC Law 13-224 that allows patients diagnosed with a specific medical or terminal condition to express their wishes regarding end of life resuscitation in the pre/post-hospital setting.
In order to qualify, one must be medically diagnosed with a specific medical or terminal condition. The Order becomes effective once the physician has signed the EMS Comfort Care Order and has placed the temporary plastic bracelet on the patient. An attorney's signature is not required.
How does one obtain this document?
The EMS Comfort Care Orders are available through one's attending physician, hospitals, nursing homes, hospices or the Department of Health.
I already have a Living Will and an Advance Directive, why do I need an EMS Comfort Care Order?
The EMS Comfort Care Order authorizes EMS personnel to follow your stated wishes regarding resuscitation efforts while you are out of the hospital setting. Documents such as the Living Will or Advanced Directives are only applicable in the hospital setting and apply only to hospital staff not EMS personnel.
What if my physician signs the EMS Comfort Care Order and I change my mind?
An EMS Comfort Care Order may be revoked at any time by the patient’s request for resuscitation made directly to responding emergency medical services personnel OR by defacing or destroying the EMS Comfort Care bracelet OR by directing another person to remove, cut, destroy, deface or discard the bracelet in the presence of the patient, the authorized decision-maker or surrogate. Destruction of an EMS Comfort Care Order or bracelet without consent carries penalties under DC Law.
What costs are associated with enrolling in the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
The EMS Comfort Care Order and the accompanying temporary plastic bracelet are provided free of charge to the individual by the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Administration of the Department of Health.
There is a fee for the permanent metal bracelet that must be obtained directly from Oneida Nameplate Company, Greeley, IA. If choose to obtain one, instructions and an order form are enclosed in the Comfort Care order Kit.
What if my physician is not aware of the EMS Comfort Care Order Program?
Contact the DNR Coordinator at (202) 671-0673. Provide your name, your physician's name along with your physician's business address including zip code and an informational brochure will be mailed to your physician.
