It’s that time of year again where preparation for the new school year has begun. If you are a parent, this involves getting school supplies, new clothes and coordinating the calendar.

However, if you are a parent of a child that is heading off to college or already currently attending a university, there may be something that you have not thought about.

Once your child turns 18, your right and ability to access medical records, make medical decisions on behalf of your child, or in certain circumstances visit your child in the hospital, ceases.

For a child that has an accident miles or even states away, not being able to get information on their well-being can be scary and frustrating. One solution to help a parent ensure they receive the necessary information in an emergency, is to have a child who is 18 years of age or older sign Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney, as well as a HIPAA release document before they go off to college, or when they visit on holiday.

More information about these documents are located on this website at Estate Planning