Q: In litigation. Asked to sign a durable power of attorney form which allows laeyer to sign medical rel for me. Is it ok?
I dont feel comfortable. I was given option of signing hipaa forms but firm says they prefer I sign power of attorney. Please someone help me understand if this is ok.
A: HIPAA forms used for requesting medical records have a section where an attorney can sign on behalf of the patient/client if they have authority to do so. It can be a convenience for the client. It's the client's choice. As a case progresses, the list of medical providers can grow. If the attorney has authority to sign, they don't have to disturb the client each time a medical office's records are sought. There might be some authorizations you have to sign regardless, because some agencies require the patient's signature. Good luck
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