When someone over 18 is hospitalized, confidentiality laws protect their privacy, even from family members. This means providers usually cannot confirm or deny your loved one is receiving care unless the patient gives permission. 

To receive updates, your loved one must sign a Release of Information (ROI) form:

• A new form is required for each hospital admission
• A separate form must be signed for each person they want involved

You can:

• Ask your loved one directly if they're willing to authorize you
• Ask staff to offer the ROI form on your behalf  

Note: Without a signed ROI, staff legally cannot share details or confirm whether your loved one is in the facility. 

Even if you're not listed on an ROI, you can still share helpful information with the care team, such as:

• Medical or psychiatric history
• Medication history or responses
• Recent concerning behavior
• Safety issues or past treatment outcomes

Providers are allowed to receive this information, even if they cannot respond or share details in return. 

Under California law (AB 1424), treatment providers are required to consider historical information from family members when making decisions about involuntary treatment. 

The Family/Caregiver Form allows you to submit important details,  even if your loved one hasn't signed an ROI.

We recommend:

• Completing the form in advance
• Keeping extra copies for hospital staff or emergency responders
• Updating it as needed

Note: This form is your voice in the care process, even if they can't speak directly to you. 

Communicating with treatment staff can be difficult at times, if you're having trouble getting information or feeling heard, a Family Advocate may be able to help. 

A Family Advocate can:

• Explain what privacy laws mean for your situation
• Help you complete the Family/Caregiver Information Form
• Act as a liaison between you and the hospital or treatment team
• Advocate for your concerns to be heard

If you have a question or need guidance, contact the:
Office of Patients' Rights / Family Advocate at (844) 360-8250.