Definitions

Art. 49A.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter: (1) "Autopsy" means a postmortem examination of the body of a person, including x-rays and an examination of the internal organs and structures after dissection, to determine the cause of death or the nature of any pathological changes that may have contributed to the death. (2) "Inquest" means an investigation into the cause and circumstances of the death of a person, and a determination, made with or without a formal court hearing, regarding whether the death was caused by an unlawful act or omission. (3) "Inquest hearing" means a formal court hearing held: (A) to determine whether the death of a person was caused by an unlawful act or omission; and (B) if the death was caused by an unlawful act or omission, to obtain evidence supporting a criminal prosecution. (4) "Institution" means a place where health care services are provided, including a hospital, clinic, health facility, nursing home, extended care facility, outpatient facility, foster care facility, and retirement home. (5) "Physician" means a practicing doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine who is licensed by the Texas Medical Board under Subtitle B, Title 3, Occupations Code. Added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 202 (H.B. 1610), Sec. 1.01, eff. April 1, 2027. Text of article effective on April 01, 2027