NYS CAREGIVER GUIDE HIPAA You might hear “I can’t tell you that because of HIPAA.” HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is a federal law that establishes rules for sharing and protecting personal medical information. Health care professionals can share medical information with caregivers and others directly involved in a person’s care if the patient has a reasonable understanding of the situation and has an opportunity to say “no.” In some situations, caregivers need medical information to have a clear understanding of what care is needed so they can decide and prepare for next steps in treatment. HIPAA allows people directly involved in care or payment for such care to get this information. HIPAA does not require written consent, though some health care facilities do ask for the patient’s signature. If you as the caregiver have problems getting the medical information you need, talk with the medical provider or facility’s social worker, patient representative, or privacy officer. 50
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