If you are preparing to send your teen off to college this fall, there is an important item that you may have forgotten to add to you “to do” list. Along with a new bedspread, computer and mini-fridge, make sure to have your child complete a health care proxy.
In New York State, when a child turns 18, he or she is considered an adult. That means that medical professionals are bound by federal privacy laws to keep your child’s medical information private, and to only discuss details with individuals who are authorized by the patient (your kid) to have that information.
You may not want to think about the potential for your child to require medical care while away at college, but accidents, injuries and illness unfortunately happen. And for a parent who may be miles away, trying to get information over the telephone from healthcare providers in another city or state, not having a health care proxy could be a major problem. Without the form, healthcare providers may be unable to discuss your child’s specific conditions and you may be unable to make decisions regarding your child’s care.
That’s why I recommend having your young adult children complete a health care proxy form. Keep a copy of the form in a safe and accessible place, and scan or take a picture of the form with your cell phone so that it is always available.
If you have any further questions or would like a health care proxy form that you and your family can fill out before move-in day, reach out to us here at Care Answered. We’re happy to help you cross one more item off your college prep “to do” list.