Texas Directive to Physicians on Behalf of a Minor
Overview of this form
The Directive to Physicians on Behalf of a Minor is a crucial legal document designed to express a parent's or guardian's wishes regarding medical treatment for a minor child in the event of a terminal condition. This form allows caregivers to communicate specific treatment preferences when the minor is unable to voicing them due to medical conditions. Unlike standard medical directives, this form specifically addresses the medical care of minors, acknowledging the unique considerations involved in such decisions.
Key parts of this document
- Identification of the minor and the person completing the directive.
- Options for treatment preferences in cases of terminal illness.
- Specification of desired comfort care measures versus life-sustaining treatments.
- Space for additional requests regarding specific treatments.
- Signature of the declarant, with requirements for witness signatures.
Common use cases
This form should be used when a minor is diagnosed with a terminal condition or an irreversible medical condition. It is essential to establish clear treatment preferences ahead of time to ensure that the minor's healthcare aligns with the values and wishes of the parent or guardian. Scenarios include life-threatening emergencies, serious illnesses requiring lengthy treatments, or situations where the minor's quality of life is significantly impacted.
Intended users of this form
- Parents of a minor child facing a terminal illness.
- Guardians responsible for making healthcare decisions for a minor.
- Spouses of adult patients, when applicable.
- Any person involved in the minor's care who wishes to articulate treatment preferences on their behalf.
Steps to complete this form
- Identify yourself as the spouse, parent, or guardian of the minor.
- Specify the minor's name and details.
- Choose treatment preferences for terminal and irreversible conditions.
- Add any additional treatment requests you feel are necessary.
- Sign and date the form in the presence of two competent witnesses.
Notarization requirements for this form
In most cases, this form does not require notarization. However, some jurisdictions or signing circumstances might. US Legal Forms offers online notarization powered by Notarize, accessible 24/7 for a quick, remote process.
Common mistakes
- Failing to have the form witnessed by qualified individuals.
- Not discussing treatment preferences with the physician or family before signing.
- Neglecting to review and update the directive periodically.
- Including unclear or ambiguous treatment requests.
Benefits of completing this form online
- Convenient access to a legal template that can be customized quickly.
- Editability allows for adjustments based on changing circumstances or preferences.
- Reliability in having a professionally drafted document vetted by licensed attorneys.
State-specific compliance details
This directive is governed by Texas law (Health and Safety Code 166.033). It outlines specific legal terms and conditions relevant to medical treatment decisions for minors and reflects Texas's unique legal landscape regarding advance directives.
Legal use & context
- This directive is considered legally binding in Texas when completed and signed according to the law's requirements.
- It is essential to ensure clarity and precision in the directives given to avoid potential legal complications.
- The directive serves as a critical tool for healthcare providers in making informed decisions when the minor is unable to communicate.
Key takeaways
- The Directive to Physicians on Behalf of a Minor articulates healthcare wishes for minors in serious health situations.
- Completing the form ensures that the minor's treatment aligns with the guardian's values and preferences.
- Discussing the contents and implications of this directive with family and healthcare providers is crucial.
Form popularity
FAQ
Advance directives do not expire. An advance directive remains in effect until you change it. If you complete a new advance directive, it invalidates the previous one.
Get the living will and medical power of attorney forms for your state, or use a universal form that has been approved by many states. Choose a health care agent. Fill out the forms, and have them witnessed as your state requires.
Advance directives are legal documents about health care choices for anyone 18 years of age or older, with or without a medical condition. In them, you can write your plans and make your wishes known if you are not able to speak for yourself.
The law requires that you sign your advance directive, or direct another to sign it, in the presence of two adult witnesses, who must also sign the document.
The living will. Durable power of attorney for health care/Medical power of attorney. POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) Do not resuscitate (DNR) orders. Organ and tissue donation.
The law requires that you sign your advance directive, or direct another to sign it, in the presence of two adult witnesses, who must also sign the document.
The name and contact information of your healthcare agent/proxy. Answers to specific questions about your preferences for care if you become unable to speak for yourself. Names and signatures of individuals who witness your signing your advance directive, if required.
Note: Texas law now allows an option for a person's signature to be acknowledged by a notary instead of witness signatures and for digital or electronic signatures on the Directive to Physicians, Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order, and the Medical Power of Attorney, if certain requirements are met.
