“I Can’t Share That”: How Family Caregivers Can Get Permission to Talk With the Care Team
HIPAA often allows doctors to talk with family. Learn how a loved one can give permission, and how to set it up with Medicare.
Patient Rights
Inpatient or Observation? The Hospital Question That Can Change Your Medicare Costs
Staying overnight doesn’t always mean you’re admitted. Learn how observation status affects Medicare costs and rehab coverage.
Not Ready to Leave the Hospital? How a Medicare Fast Appeal Works
Feel like you’re being discharged too soon? Learn how Medicare’s fast appeal works, the key deadlines, and what to say when you call.
How to Get a Copy of Your Medical Records (and What to Do If You Get Stuck)
You have a right to see and copy most of your health records. Here is how to ask, what it may cost, and what to do if you get stuck.
Health Literacy Month: How to Read Your Test Results and Records
Your rights to your health records, how to read a lab report, and what to ask your care team about results.
Getting a Second Opinion: When to Ask and How to Prepare
A second opinion is common and is your right. Learn when it helps, how to ask, what to bring, and how to check coverage.
A Big Hospital Bill Arrived: Steps to Take Before You Pay
Before you pay a large hospital bill, check it, ask about financial assistance, and know your rights under federal billing protections.
Patient Safety: Simple Ways to Speak Up and Stay Safe in Care
World Patient Safety Day is September 17. Patients and families are part of the safety team. Here are simple ways to help prevent mistakes.
A health plan denied care: organize the next step
A denial letter is the starting document. The reason, plan type, deadline, and urgency determine the correct route.