[Buckeyephan]

On Tuesday, my mother-in-law had surgery. To our total frustration, her physician could only tell us that she had done well in surgery and was in recovery. When we asked about her health issue, she told us that because of HIPPA, she was not able to share any of that information. At the age of 88, she is struggling to make sensible health decisions. My husband is her only relative and was blocked from being her advocate because of this governmental rule.

The purpose of this post is to urge you, especially those who no longer have a spouse, to make sure that those who love you have the ability to get the important information to help you in case of illness. On your next visit, please make sure that your doctor is given permission to share facts with those who should know them. As we age, it is vital that we have all the help we need to maintain our good health.