The bill amends the "Estates and Protected Individuals Code" by updating sections 5507 and 5509 to clarify the powers and limitations of patient advocates. Notably, it allows a patient advocate designation to include a statement regarding the patient's desires for life-sustaining treatment if the patient is pregnant at the time the designation becomes effective. This amendment ensures that a patient's pregnancy status does not limit their rights to express their wishes regarding medical treatment. Additionally, the bill specifies that a patient advocate can make decisions about anatomical gifts and must act in accordance with the patient's known desires and best interests.

Furthermore, the bill removes the previous restriction that prohibited patient advocates from making medical treatment decisions that could result in the death of a pregnant patient. Instead, it now allows for such decisions if the patient has clearly expressed their wishes. The amendments also emphasize the responsibilities of patient advocates to follow the patient's instructions and maintain the standards of care applicable to fiduciaries. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the autonomy of patients in making healthcare decisions while ensuring that patient advocates act in their best interests.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 700.5507, 700.5509
As Passed by the Senate: 700.5507, 700.5509