If your child or a child you are legally responsible for is 18 years old, then You NEED a HIPAA consent arrangement. Myth-But the child lives in my house and is on my insurance plan.” Too bad, doesn’t matter! The physician or hospital may share pertinent info with a parent, but it is not required. This is not a case of physicians being difficult, it’s the law. In this age of patient confidentiality, a parent must have consent to obtain medical records, review treatments, or be informed about test results. In essence anything related to your child’s health can be concealed from you. Myth- “But my children would not conceal medical information from me.” Really? What did you conceal from your parents when you were 18? IMPORTANT-different states have different rules. So, if your child attends college in another state, check the rules for that state. Also, not all states will have one form that covers all medical providers. Other documents to consider: HealthCare Surrogate or Medical Power of Attorney and Business Power of Attorney (Should your child own a business) “Hey Bear Sen$e guy, what is the best way to obtain these documents?” Start with your family estate attorney. Bear Sen$e MarkAlanGriffis.com
