Texas House Bill HB43

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

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

Impact

The bill stipulates that a DNR order is valid only if it adheres to specific conditions, such as being issued in compliance with the written or oral directions of a competent patient, or through valid advance directives. By clarifying requirements for DNR orders, the legislation could reduce misunderstandings and disputes regarding end-of-life care wishes, ultimately leading to a more respectful handling of patient directives. The amendments may centralize certain patient rights regarding treatment decisions under clearly outlined rules, thereby potentially enhancing the rights of individuals facing critical health situations.

Summary

House Bill 43 focuses on establishing general procedures and requirements concerning do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders in health care facilities across Texas. The bill specifies that a DNR order is to be respected in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and assisted living facilities, ensuring that such decisions are made clearly and documented properly. The legislation aims to provide clarity and uniformity in the handling of DNR orders, moving beyond existing state laws to offer better guidance to health care providers and patients alike.

Contention

Although the bill aims to streamline the DNR process and uphold patient wishes, there are concerns regarding the implications for patient autonomy. For instance, discussions may arise on whether certain phrasing is too ambiguous or too rigid, potentially limiting individuals' ability to have their wishes reflected accurately. Observers worry about the balance between providing clear guidelines and ensuring individualized care. There may be additional dialogue surrounding the adequacy of notice and disclosure requirements mandated by the bill, as well as how effectively such policies can be implemented in practice.