One of the components of the comprehensive estate plans we establish for our clients is a HIPAA authorization. This form allows our clients to name trusted loved ones or professional advisors to have access to their otherwise-confidential records. I found this New York Times article regarding HIPAA authorizations interesting. It discusses how many institutions have incorrectly or overbroadly applied HIPAA as a convenient shield to avoid providing information because it is bureaucratically inconvenient.

I hope that we’re able to simplify the HIPAA rules – but in the meantime, it’s important to have an up-to-date HIPAA authorization with trusted individuals named.