HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
Scrolling through the Washington Post this morning, I came across this article regarding HIPAA and Covid vaccination status. So, I thought what better time to send out this reminder...
Part of your estate planning documents SHOULD include a HIPAA waiver. This is critical for the medical community to be able to disclose your medical information to your Health Care Directive agent if you are unable to give permission. We’ve heard many sad stories of doctors and nurses who won’t violate HIPAA (there’s a big fine) and loved ones are left out of the information loop.
Don’t assume your Health Directive has one, double check today! Not only should your agents be listed but anyone you want to be able to hear what the doctor has to say about your situation (even if they can’t make medical decisions for you). For example, I have close family and friends on my HIPAA waiver in case I’m in the hospital and they want to call to see how I’m doing or they happen to be visiting (non-Covid times) when the doctor makes her rounds. If the doctor can explain what’s going on to my friend/family in the room and relay it to my agent, it can only help!
If you don’t have a comprehensive up-to-date estate plan, contact us!