Video Summary
Do I need to set up a medical directory directive? Yes, you should. The medical directive has a HIPAA waiver in it, which authorizes the hospital to release your information to a third party. Without this, without a HIPAA waiver, they’re not supposed to discuss your medical condition or release your records to anyone. Many times you sign this in the doctor’s office, but if you go into the hospital and you’re not able to sign these releases or a hip waiver, then they’re not supposed to discuss this with anyone. So that’s the purpose of the medical directive, is to authorize someone to be able to find out how you’re doing in the hospital, that’s a HIPAA waiver, and also access your medical records. That also allows them to make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. They do not have a right to override your decisions or either verbal or written that you’ve given if you go into the hospital. So, yes, you should have a medical director, which is a designation of a healthcare cert. If you have any questions, please call me at (727) 847-2288.