The time has finally come. Your child is leaving home and headed to a university, college, trade school, or other institution of higher learning. A thousand fears enter your mind, perhaps many stemming from the days you spent at your old alma matter. This time can be both a joyous celebration and a sad realization that your child is all grown up. Either way, a lot of work lies ahead of you both as your new student transfers into the next stage of life. Before you load up that lunch card and check out the bookstore, make sure you both are prepared for any health emergencies that may occur.
Your child is eighteen now and an adult according to the laws of Missouri. Your child's health information is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). No parent wants to think about that possible 3am call from the hospital that their child has been admitted. What's worse, absent your child's consent, the hospital may be unable to contact you concerning the admission and treatment. But this problem, and many similar problems, can be addressed with simple planning now.
Advanced Directives, such as a Healthcare Directive and Living Will ("HCD") and HIPAA authorizations, can keep you informed and keep your child protected.
Advanced Directives can:
Identify health care agents to make decisions for the child if he or she is incapacitated;
Authorize who can be provided access to medical information;
Document the child's healthcare preferences and wishes; and
Document the child's treatment preferences.
A simple piece of planning now can prevent lots of worry later. Consult with an attorney and make sure you and your child are prepared for potential health emergencies.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss Advanced Directives, contact us.
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