HIPAA Authorization – Glossary | RJP Estate Planning

Estate Documents

A form that gives family members or agents permission to access your medical records under federal privacy law.

A HIPAA authorization is a legal document that allows your designated representatives to access your protected health information. HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) restricts who can see your medical records. Without this authorization, even your spouse or adult children may be denied access.

Why You Need a HIPAA Authorization

Medical providers follow strict privacy rules. If you are hospitalized or incapacitated, your family needs access to your records to make informed decisions. A HIPAA authorization removes the legal barrier. Without one, your healthcare agent may have the authority to make decisions but lack the medical information needed to make good ones.

How It Works With Your Estate Plan

A HIPAA authorization works alongside your medical power of attorney and healthcare directive. Your medical power of attorney gives your agent decision-making authority. Your HIPAA authorization gives them access to the information they need. Together, they ensure your agent can act quickly and effectively.

Who Should Be Named

Most people name the same person as their healthcare agent, plus one or two alternates. You can also name family members who are not your agent but who you want to be able to check on your condition. The authorization stays in effect until you revoke it or pass away.