What is a 'HIPAA Authorization'?
A 'HIPAA Authorization' document is included as part of your Estate Plan. It allows specific individuals you select to access your medical records. Typically, HIPAA laws protect your health information from public disclosure, restricting access to unauthorized persons.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, is a federal law that protects your personal health information from disclosure to third parties, except as you authorize or as required by law.
But if you want, for example, family members or friends to know about your health so they can help make decisions for you, you'll need this form.
Why do I need a 'HIPAA Authorization'?
If you become ill or can't make decisions for yourself, this form tells doctors they can share your health information with the people you've picked. Without this form, doctors might not be able to tell your loved ones about your condition, which could make it hard for them to make the best decisions for your care.
Works With Your Advance Healthcare Directive
A HIPAA Authorization works with an Advance Healthcare Directive to ensure that your Healthcare Agents are able to communicate with your healthcare providers about your condition, treatment, and prognosis. Without a HIPAA Authorization, your family, loved ones, and your designated representatives may be unable to receive information about your medical condition.
How do I create a 'HIPAA Authorization' document?
When you purchase an Estate Plan, we create a 'HIPAA Authorization' document from the information you provide to us in the questionnaire.
How to Access Your 'HIPAA Authorization' Document
You can view, download, or print your 'HIPAA Authorization' directly from your account. Simply click on Documents from the menu on the left-hand side and then select the Legal Documents tab at the top. Scroll down to find the document titled 'HIPAA Authorization' within the list.
How to Edit Your 'HIPAA Authorization' Document
While you cannot directly modify the final 'HIPAA Authorization' document that you see in the Legal Documents tab in your account, you can make changes to the specific sections that you answered in the questionnaire. To edit, click on Documents from the menu on the left-hand side and then select the Summary tab at the top and Edit next to the section that needs to be updated. These adjustments will then be reflected in your 'HIPAA Authorization'.