I get HIPAA, but sometimes it sucks. My Grandfather died this morning.

[MADem]

11. The only thing you can do is try to get older loved ones to sign a waiver authorizing you to have

access to their medical records. It's not always easy, but sometimes you can make it happen with friendly persuasion.

I do wish doctors had the time to deal with patients in such a way that they understood that these sorts of things often need the entire family involved. A doctor making that suggestion to a patient often helps to overcome patient resistance. Patients will not want their relative to have access to their records, but when the DOCTOR says it's a good idea, they get over their objections.

Also, you can say anything at all TO a doctor about a patient--you can tell them things the patient won't tell the doc--the only thing is, the doctor cannot acknowledge anything you say or write to them. Sometimes, though, that kind of info is helpful to the doctor who has a patient who is lying to him or her. I say write that letter to the doc if you think a loved one isn't being straight with the MD.

I am so sorry for your loss. I have been going to too many funerals lately. It sucks. And 91 is too young if everything's still working. Damn.