Q: My son age 22 is in a coma. His emergency contact was his legal guardian from when he was 13 to 18. She made it impossib
For me to visit or get any info on his condition. They won't even let me know he is there. What can I do? I am next to kin. I'm his mother.
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
Under California law, as the biological mother and next of kin, you have the right to receive information about your son's medical condition. Start by contacting the hospital's patient advocate or ombudsman to explain your situation and request access to information about your son. Provide proof of your relationship and any necessary identification to facilitate this process.
If the hospital staff continues to deny you access, you may need to assert your legal rights formally. Consider drafting a letter stating your relationship to your son and your legal rights as next of kin, and request a response in writing. This can sometimes prompt a more serious consideration of your request.
In case these steps do not yield results, seeking legal advice to understand your options might be beneficial. A legal professional can help you navigate the complexities of healthcare privacy laws and ensure that your rights as a parent are recognized and upheld. Remember, persistence and clear communication are key in advocating for your rights and your son's well-being.
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