HIPAA

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (42USC 1320d and 45 CFR 160-164), commonly called the HIPAA (pronouced Hippa) is what enables a parent to make health decisions for an adult son or daughter (or a spouse) if they are unable to do so themselves.  The parents would have the authority to discuss their child’s medical condition with a doctor or nurse.  A HIPAA form is usually completed along with other estate planning documents.  A copy is usually sufficient to produce when needed.  It is important to keep at least a copy in an accessible location in your home  (carry it with you on vacation even!).  It doesn’t do any good if it is locked in the bank lock box or the original is the only copy and it is on file at your doctor’s office if you need it at night or over the weekend, etc.