Doctors and other medical providers often find themselves in an awkward position when a caregiver first enters the picture. They have a need and are actually required by law, to protect the patient’s privacy. To initiate and stay informed about your parents medical conditions will probably require that your parents sign forms authorizing the medical provides to release the information. At this point it would probably be best if your parents would arrange for a specific power of attorney authorizing your to receive there medical information. Certified copies should be provided to your parents’ physicians, pharmacist, and other medical providers.
Communicating With
About How the Doctor’s Office Works
• What days/hours is the office open?
• How are medical emergencies handled?
• When is the best time to reach the doctor by phone, fax or e-mail?
• Which method of communication does the doctor prefer?
• Who can answer questions if the doctor is not available?
• Who can I call after hours or when the doctor is away?
Advise the providers that you would prefer the internet as a vehicle for communications. This would make it easier for you to control a condensed history of medical information that can easily be forwarded along with any questions prior to an office visit.
Improving the communications between the family caregiver and the primary physician will lead to better care for the patient, less stress for the caregiver, better use of the doctor’s time.