partner and the hospital

I have heard horror stories about hospitals not letting partners in to ICU. My Dr has told me more than likely I will be in ICU my first night. I was just wondering if anyone has had any problems with the hospital not letting your so visit?

Well where I had my surgery, I didn't go to intensive care because they had their own special bariatric unit and everyone that I allowed was able to visit me.  Now space in the waiting room was limited so I could only bring my parents but in my hospital room, I had my parents and three friends waiting on me.

As for an ICU, I would think that to make you comfortable, they would let anyone that you wanted back to see you.  You might wanna make sure that you tell your nurses that you want your partner there with you or give them a list of people that you allow back in your room.

I'd suggest asking your doctor's office what you need to do to make sure your partner can visit you when you're in the ICU.  You may also want to ask what you need to do so your partner can call the hospital to get information about your status.  Generally, hospitals are only allowed to release information to "family members," which is usually limited to more traditional definitions of family by federal law.  But I believe that under HIPPA, you should be able to give advance written authorization for the hospital to release information about you to whomever you designate, whether or not they are a "family member" in a traditional sense. 

Anyway, just ask so you don't have to worry about it!!

Good luck on your continuing journey -

Kellie

On my first visit to my surgeons office, I was asked to give them a list of names of people that are allowed any and all info on me. When I'm in the hospital, these people are allowed to be told anything. I'm also going to a Hospital that has their own Bariatric Unit, so I'm sure I won't have this problem, but just to be sure, it would be a good idea to talk to your doctor ahead of time. I think I'm going to as well... Good Luck To You Hon!

Thank god Cynthia and I are legally married in Massachusetts, and recognized as spouses in situations like this (the Feds -- another story).  In fact, I'm planning on a private room so that she can stay with me on a cot or lounge-sleeper.  We live 2 hours away from the hospital, so driving back and forth isn't an option. 

I think you should just ask ahead of time so you can relax.   LOL my partner stepped out of my room for a quick smoke outside and my Dr. went and gave her a lecture about getting back inside to help make me feel at ease.  All places seem to be different! Good luck!~Ann~

Is your partner also your Durable Power of Attorney for healthcare?

I would think your DPOA would be absolutely allowed.

In WA, we have Domestic Partnership. I actually have a wallet card. Strangely enough, we are administered by the same section of the state government which licenses corporations.

I didn't have a problem here when I had my heart attack or when I had my WLS, but that's this area. I'm sure it could have been a completely different scenario elsewhere.

I would check to make sure you will have no problems. Don't wait until the problem arises.

Good luck and keep us posted.

I would call and check with the hospital and your doctor. I know with HIPPA, or whatever the letters are, that you tell them who to release info to so that shouldn't be a problem. I think at the hospital I went to whomever you brought with you was allowed anywhere. I could be wrong since he is my hubby. Good luck with all this.

Reminds me again why we need to make marriage legal. This is something I never even had to think about!

Vow to vote NO on 8!