Back in April, we spoke to Ellen about this important legal protection for your kids as they turn 18. Here's a quick reminder of what's at stake before they head off into the world.
Did you know….
• Once your child turns 18, you can no longer make medical decisions or access health records without legal authorization.
• If your child is unconscious or incapacitated (e.g., due to an accident or illness), without having a Medical Power Of Attorney (POA), you cannot make healthcare decisions.
• Without a Medical POA in place, hospitals may require court orders before allowing you to act on your own child's behalf.
• This can result in delays and legal fees just to achieve the right to make medical decisions on behalf of your own child.
How do you avoid this?
• Your child should have a Medical POA in place before going to college.
• A Medical POA can include a HIPAA release, granting access to your child's medical records when necessary.
• Having this will eliminate delays in critical situations by clearly designating who is allowed to speak with doctors and make decisions.
• A Medical POA will ensure someone can coordinate care or authorize treatment even if your child is far from home.
• Finally, a Medical POA reassures families that someone they trust can step in and help during health crises without needing court intervention.
For Assistance, contact Ellen Goodman, estate planning attorney at Goodman Law Office LLC at 973-370-3025 (goodmanlawnj.com)