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Medical Proxy for Elder - Who can request information and/or referral?

If my sister is our elderly father's medical proxy would I be able to request a doctor's referral from the Veterans Hospital in order for him to get physical therapy at his elder care facility?? Or is this something only his medical proxy is able to obtain and okay? thanks

Editor's Response

As you probably know, your father's healthcare proxy will not become effective until his doctor determines that he is no longer able to make medical decisions.  After that point, in theory, only the agent, your sister, should be allowed to request information or make other medical decisions on his behalf, such as requesting a referral.  If you are not at that point yet, the answer probably depends on the hospital.  Often, medical providers understand that family members often help their elders make decisions and set up medical treatments.  Hope that helps.

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