Bill Caption

Relating to advance directives or health care or treatment decisions made by or on behalf of patients.

Fiscal Notes

According to the Legislative Budget Board, no significant fiscal implication to the state is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

Under current law, many individuals provide medical directives, which are arrangements that have been made in the event of a life-threatening circumstance that relates to the individual's wishes during what could be, possibly, end of life care. An example of this would include a document such a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate).

SB 2089 would require that when a physician refuses to honor a patient or surrogate's medical directives, the physician is required to continue to provide treatment until a facility that will provide the treatment is located and the patient is transferred to the treatment of another physician. The bill also removes text that requires the patient to pay for costs that are incurred due to the patient, eliminating the patient's financial obligation. 

In addition, SB 2089 would also require the physician under the directive order to continue to administer items that would hydrate or provide nutritional needs to the patient, unless their are medical circumstances where this would not be a possible option.

Lastly, SB 2089 would require review by the Texas Medical Board in the event of a physician refusing to comply with an advanced directive order.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This is primarily a social issue and we do not make vote recommendation on social issues, therefore we remain neutral.