The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (“HIPAA”) was enacted in 1996 and has set rules to protect the patient’s privacy rights.
The information protected includes your medical records, conversations about your care, data on your health insurer’s computer system, and billing figures. Doctors and medical institutions must receive your authorization to release the information to third parties. Otherwise, they may face civil and criminal penalties.
If you want family members or friends to have access to your medical records, including your agents, you will need to sign a HIPAA Release in which you will appoint them as personal representatives. The release only authorizes them to collect and review medical information. If you want an agent to represent your interests, you need to execute an Advance Medical Directive.
For further information or to receive a brochure about HIPAA Releases, please call Miorini Law, PLLC at (703) 448-6121 or send an email to yahne.miorini@miorinilaw.com
