Relating to an advance directive and do-not-resuscitate order of a pregnant woman and information provided for an advance directive.
Impact
If enacted, HB1161 would amend existing health and safety codes, reinforcing provisions that empower pregnant women to make clear directives concerning their medical treatment in the event of severe health crises. Specifically, it modifies sections of the Health and Safety Code related to the creation and enforcement of advance directives and the execution of DNR orders, ensuring that medical professionals and institutions respect the treatment preferences of pregnant patients.
Summary
House Bill 1161 addresses the rights of pregnant women regarding advance directives and do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. The bill allows individuals of child-bearing age to specify how their pregnancy impacts their advance directive concerning life-sustaining treatment. This change is particularly relevant in medical situations where a patient's wishes about treatment are not fully represented due to their inability to communicate, thereby promoting patient agency and autonomy during critical health decisions.
Conclusion
Overall, HB1161 represents a significant shift in how state law will recognize the medical autonomy of pregnant individuals, balancing the need for comprehensive patient rights with ongoing debates surrounding pregnancy and medical ethics. Its passage could set a precedent for future legislative efforts aimed at refining patient care frameworks and advancing the rights of individuals facing critical health decisions.
Contention
While the bill seeks to enhance patient rights and clarity in medical treatment directives, notable points of contention could arise concerning the moral and ethical implications of allowing for advance directives in pregnant patients, especially in life-threatening situations. Advocates for women's rights may support the bill as a crucial step towards broader reproductive rights, while opponents may highlight concerns about the protection of unborn life and the potential conflicts between a pregnant woman's wishes and those of her medical care team.
Relating to advance directives, do-not-resuscitate orders, and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of certain patients, including a review of directives and decisions.
Relating to advance directives and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of patients, including a review of those directives and decisions.
Relating to advance directives and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of patients, including a review of those directives and decisions.
Relating to health care practitioner authority regarding certain do-not-resuscitate orders, including the use of electronic copies and photographs of out-of-hospital do-not-resuscitate orders.