Texas House Bill HB12

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to general procedures and requirements for do-not-resuscitate orders.

Impact

The bill's provisions are intended to create a clear framework for the issuance and implementation of DNR orders, thereby protecting patient rights and ensuring that health care professionals are guided by consistent standards. By establishing the order's validity based on the patient's written or verbal directives, as well as an advance directive or instructions from legal representatives, it reinforces the ethical principle of respecting patient autonomy in end-of-life care. This could significantly impact hospitals and assisted living facilities, streamlining processes and potentially reducing conflicts regarding DNR decisions.

Summary

House Bill 12 seeks to establish specific procedures and requirements regarding do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders within health care facilities in Texas. The bill defines what constitutes a DNR order and specifies that these orders must be issued in compliance with various guidelines that respect the wishes of competent patients. It also emphasizes the importance of documentation and communication of these orders, ensuring that they are recorded in the patient's medical record and are shared appropriately with relevant individuals during the patient's admission to a facility or hospice service.

Contention

While the intent behind HB 12 appears to be to improve care and respect for patients' wishes, there may be points of contention surrounding the balance between medical judgment and patient autonomy. Some may argue about the adequacy of the safeguards put in place to ensure that patients' rights are being honored without undue influence from medical staff. Additionally, discussions may arise about whether these regulations adequately protect vulnerable populations, particularly those who may not have the capacity to express their wishes clearly or those who are under the care of representatives.