Due to federal HIPAA laws, once your child turns 18 years of age, you no longer have legal access to their medical information. This means that without the proper signed document, should your adult teen become incapacitated  for some reason, you may find it difficult to even obtain information about their condition, much less be able to make medical decisions on their behalf.

Once your child turns 18 years of age, you no longer have the legal right to handle any non-medical emergencies for them. This includes issues such as dealing with the DMV, insurance company, bank or speaking to a landlord for your adult teen unless you have a properly executed Power of Attorney.

Every adult 18 years of age or older should have the following three signed documents: An Advance Health Care Directive (Medical Power of Attorney), A Durable Power of Attorney and a HIPAA Authorization Form. These documents will help facilitate the involvement of a parent or other designated trusted adult in an emergency situation.