We don’t like to think about what might happen if we’re ever unable to make our own medical decisions. But the truth is, planning for the unexpected is one of the most caring and proactive steps you can take—not just for yourself, but for your loved ones.
Whether it’s a car accident, a sudden illness, or a slow decline from age or chronic conditions, having clear healthcare directives in place can spare your family from confusion and stress. In Texas, these documents are called advance directives, and they ensure your wishes are honored even if you can’t speak for yourself.
What Are Healthcare Directives in Texas?
Healthcare directives (also called advance directives) are legal documents that outline your preferences for medical care and appoint someone to speak on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. In Texas, there are several types of healthcare directives that each serve a unique role:
- Medical Power of Attorney – Lets you name someone (called an agent) to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
- Directive to Physicians and Family (Living Will) – Allows you to state whether or not you want life-sustaining treatment if you’re diagnosed with a terminal or irreversible condition.
- Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order – Tells emergency medical personnel not to perform CPR or other life-saving efforts outside a hospital setting.
- HIPAA Authorization – Lets you give trusted individuals access to your medical records and information.
Each of these documents plays a different role, but together, they form a strong, comprehensive plan for medical decision-making.
Why They Matter So Much
Imagine your loved ones trying to guess what you’d want in a crisis—while dealing with the stress of a hospital setting and the emotion of the moment. Advance directives take that burden off their shoulders.
They also help avoid legal disputes or delays in care. In Texas, without a designated Medical Power of Attorney, doctors might have to follow a statutory hierarchy to decide who can speak for you—which may not reflect your personal wishes or relationships.
A well-prepared set of healthcare directives ensures your care aligns with your values—not hospital policies or family disagreements.
Who Should Have Healthcare Directives?
Spoiler: It’s not just for older adults.
We recommend healthcare directives for:
- Young adults (18+) – Once you’re legally an adult, your parents no longer have automatic authority over your medical care.
- Parents with young children – Make sure your spouse or trusted friend can speak for you if needed.
- Business owners and frequent travelers – Accidents happen; preparation is key.
- Anyone with a chronic or progressive medical condition – Have your choices clearly documented.
In short? If you’re alive, grown, and breathing—this is for you.
How to Set Up Your Healthcare Directives in Texas
The process is straightforward when you have a little guidance:
1. Choose Your Medical Power of Attorney Agent – Pick someone who knows your values and will advocate for your wishes. Talk to them first and make sure they’re comfortable taking on the responsibility.
2. Define Your End-of-Life Care Preferences – Decide how you feel about life-sustaining treatments (like feeding tubes, ventilators, and resuscitation) and put it in writing through a Directive to Physicians.
3. Sign and Notarize or Witness the Documents – Texas allows notarization or two witnesses (one cannot be related or a care provider).
4. Share Copies – Give signed copies to your agent, primary care doctor, and loved ones. Don’t just lock it in a drawer and forget about it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not telling your loved ones about your choices – If they’re surprised at the hospital, things can get messy.
- Only doing one document – A Medical Power of Attorney alone is helpful, but combining it with a Living Will gives a full picture.
- Forgetting to update – Review your directives every few years or after major life events (marriage, divorce, diagnosis).
- Not including HIPAA Authorization – Without this, even your spouse might struggle to access your records.
How The Greg Hall Law Firm Can Help
We work with Texans across the state to draft and organize healthcare directives from the comfort of home. No office visits, no big-firm price tags—just reliable, virtual paralegal support you can trust.
We help you:
- Draft a complete Texas Advance Directive package
- Appoint your Medical Power of Attorney
- Add a HIPAA release
- Understand how and when to use a DNR order
We can also coordinate with your estate planning attorney if you already have one, or refer you to one if legal advice is needed.
Planning Today Brings Peace Tomorrow
None of us can predict the future, but we can prepare for it. Having your healthcare directives in place means your voice will be heard—even if you can’t speak—and your family won’t be left guessing.
Visit www.greghalllaw.com to learn more or start building your healthcare directive package today. It’s one of the simplest, most meaningful gifts you can give your future self—and your loved ones.