National Healthcare Decisions Month: 3 Medical Planning Documents Every Texas Estate Plan Should Include

Estate planning is not just about passing down your assets. It is also about protecting yourself while you are still living.

If you become unable to make medical decisions, your family may be left guessing about your wishes. That can lead to confusion, disagreements, and added stress during an already difficult time. The right documents can help prevent that.

Why Medical Planning Should Be Part of Your Estate Plan

Many people focus on wills and trusts but overlook healthcare decisions. This can create serious gaps in your plan.

Without clear instructions:

• Doctors may follow standard procedures that do not reflect your values
• Family members may disagree about what to do
• Important decisions may be delayed

A complete plan helps you stay in control and gives your family clear direction when it matters most.

1. Directive to Physicians (Living Will)

A Directive to Physicians, often called a living will, explains the type of medical care you want if you cannot communicate.

This document is commonly used in situations involving serious illness or injury. You can outline your preferences for:

• Life-sustaining treatment
• Pain management
• End-of-life care

For example, you might decide whether you want certain treatments if recovery is unlikely. This removes the burden from your family having to guess.

2. Medical Power of Attorney

A Medical Power of Attorney allows you to choose someone to make healthcare decisions for you.

This person only steps in if you are unable to make decisions yourself.

When choosing an agent, consider someone who:

• Understands your values
• Can communicate clearly with doctors
• Is willing to make difficult decisions if needed

For many families, this document is one of the most important. It ensures that someone you trust—not the court or medical system—is in charge of your care decisions.

3. Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate (OOH-DNR)

An Out-of-Hospital DNR is a Texas-specific document. It tells emergency responders not to perform CPR or other life-saving measures outside of a hospital setting.

This may apply in places like:

• Your home
• A nursing facility
• Assisted living

Without this document, emergency personnel are generally required to attempt resuscitation.

This form is often used by individuals with serious health conditions, but it can be part of a broader planning conversation depending on your preferences.

How These Documents Work Together

Each document serves a different role, but they are strongest when used together.

• The Directive to Physicians explains your wishes
• The Medical Power of Attorney names your decision-maker
• The OOH-DNR provides clear instructions in emergency situations

Together, they create a clear plan that helps avoid confusion and ensures your voice is heard—even if you cannot speak.

Don’t Skip the Conversation with Your Family

Legal documents are important, but they are only part of the process.

Your family should understand your wishes ahead of time. This helps them feel more confident if they ever need to make decisions on your behalf.

You might talk about:

• What quality of life means to you
• What types of care you would want—or not want
• Who you trust to step in

These conversations can make a difficult situation a little easier for everyone involved.

When Should You Put These Estate Planning Documents in Place?

Many people assume medical planning can wait. In reality, unexpected situations can happen at any time.

You may want to put these documents in place if you:

• Have children or dependents
• Own a business or significant assets
• Are planning for retirement
• Have experienced a recent health change

Planning ahead gives you more control and helps protect your family from unnecessary stress.

Key Takeaways

• Medical planning is an essential part of a complete estate plan
• A Directive to Physicians explains your treatment preferences
• A Medical Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions for you
• An Out-of-Hospital DNR provides clear instructions for emergency responders
• Conversations with your family can prevent confusion and conflict
• Reviewing your plan with an attorney helps ensure everything works together

Take the Next Step to Protect Your Family

Medical decisions are not always predictable. Having a clear plan in place can help protect your wishes and reduce the burden on your loved ones.

At McCammon Law, P.C., we help individuals and families build estate plans that address both financial and medical decisions. Your plan should reflect your values and give you control over important choices.

If you are ready to review your plan, speaking with an estate planning attorney in Boerne, TX can help you take the next step. Request a consultation today. 

References: Forbes Advisor “Advance Directives: What You Need To Know” and The Conversation Project “National Healthcare Decisions Day”