Are there any special HIPAA considerations when treating children (minors) who are living in group homes? Can the group home social workers/care givers give consent to share medical information, or are there other considerations in these types of cases?
Answer: In general, the group home has something on file regarding consent to treat and share information. It might be a good idea to reach out to the group homes you do business with and see if you can come up with a document or other protocol that works for both parties that group home caregivers can bring with them when children come for treatment. I recommend having this approved by your legal department.
This question was answered by: Kelly McGinnis, FHFMA, director of revenue cycle, HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley, and a member of HFMA’s Hudson Valley New York Chapter.
The information provided through the Forum’s Ask the Expert service does not constitute legal advice, even when the advice is provided by lawyers. You need to obtain your own legal counsel for legal advice, and consider the laws and regulations that govern your state. The content and opinions expressed are those of the Forum experts, and not that of their employers or of HFMA. HFMA does not endorse the material or warrant or guarantee its accuracy. The responses are based only on the specific facts or circumstances provided. Forum experts cannot be held liable for outcomes related to any information provided.
Pose another question to our Legal & Regulatory Forum experts.
