Texas House Bill HB2483

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/8/11
• Refer: 3/14/11
• Refer: 3/16/11
• Refer: 4/26/11

Caption

Relating to certain do-not-resuscitate orders and advance directives; providing penalties.

Impact

The bill's passage would directly impact healthcare practices related to end-of-life care. By establishing clearer protocols for the issuance and revocation of DNR orders, the legislation intends to enhance patient autonomy while simultaneously protecting healthcare providers from legal liability. The amendments would require that any out-of-hospital DNR order must be executed lawfully, and physicians who knowingly violate these provisions would face felony charges, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to established medical protocols.

Summary

House Bill 2483 aims to amend regulations regarding do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders and advance directives in the state of Texas. The bill seeks to ensure that DNR orders issued in a hospital setting are valid only when issued in compliance with specific guidelines, which include directions from the patient, their legal guardian, or medical power of attorney. This clarity addresses potential ambiguities surrounding the validity of such orders, ensuring that patient wishes are respected within legal frameworks.

Sentiment

General sentiment towards HB 2483 has been supportive among professional healthcare organizations that advocate for patient rights and clarity in medical directives. Proponents argue that the bill strengthens the ability of patients to dictate their end-of-life care while providing necessary guidance to medical professionals. However, some concerns may arise regarding guardians' powers to revoke DNR orders, with critics cautioning against potential misuse or conflicts within family dynamics during critical healthcare decisions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between a patient’s wishes and the authority exercised by legal guardians or relatives. The provisions allowing guardians or relatives to revoke DNR orders can potentially lead to conflicts, especially in situations where family members disagree about the patient's wishes. Additionally, the requirement for health care professionals to document revocations meticulously could raise concerns about operational burdens, particularly in emergency settings. Thus, while the bill’s intent is to support patient autonomy, complexities in implementation and family dynamics could emerge as contentious points.