Don’t Let Your Child Leave For College Until You Read This!
July 12, 2024
The summer before sending your child away to college for the first time is hectic. There is a seemingly endless checklist of things to buy, appointments to schedule, and forms to fill out. One more thing to add to your list before your new freshman moves into the dorm – a Designation of Healthcare Agent form.
What is a Designation of Healthcare Agent form and why is it needed?
If your child is already 18, you may have noticed that your access to their medical records has been restricted because they are legally an adult. The only way to access your child’s medical information now is if they share it with you. If your child still lives at home with you, this is easy. But what happens if your child is away at college and you need to access their medical records, or worse, they have a medical emergency? This is why they need a Designation of Healthcare Agent form.
The Designation of Healthcare Agent form allows your child (who is over 18) to name an “agent” who will always have access to their medical records and who can make healthcare decisions for them in the event that they cannot. The form can list one or both parents as the child’s agent and remains in effect unless and until the child revokes it. The Designation of Healthcare Agent form works best when it is signed before it is actually needed. The best course of action is to have your child sign one as soon as they turn 18, keep the original in your files, and to put a copy on file with your child’s medical providers.
Amy Van Fossen
Counsel
Trusts and Estates
973-447-9675 · 973-618-5939 Fax
avanfossen@bracheichler.com
