How to advocate for family member with mental health issues

[Anonymous]

Family member has mental health issues plus substance abuse problem.

I've heard it so many times from health care providers- "we can't talk to you due to privacy laws", "the patient needs to ask for their own treatment." etc

My question has always been-- If the patient is already not in their right mind, how can they even advocate for themselves?

This is so frustrating!

My family member has already signed a release for me to be able to transact but I am still not getting information from his health care provider.

Does anyone know what other "powers" I need? A power of attorney? I also need to be able to talk to his employer, his insurance, his HR.

thank you in advance.

[Anonymous]

Power of attorney & health care power of attorney. Are you sure your relative signed a HIPAA release? The doctors should talk to you with that in place.