My son has just turned 17 years old. I solely cared for him til he moved to residential accommodation.
I attend all his medical appointments and am very much involved with his care.
My son is non-verbal with significant LD.
I called his GP surgery today to ask for results of his recent blood tests.
Receptionist told me that she couldn’t disclose as my son was 17.
I explained that I am his Mum and son is non-verbal therefore unable to request these himself.
After some time receptionist told me that she would disclose blood results to me this once but I would need to call in and complete a consent form?
This sort of thing is happening more and more now my son is getting older.
Is there anything that I need to do or apply for to ensure that as son gets older especially from 18 years onwards especially that I am privvy to all information about him?
I can see this only becoming more frequent as we go on otherwise.
Thank you
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Hi @Amanda_1803, it might be worth contacting the carers helpline for further information and advice but also a solicitor as I am not sure if power attorney would work in this case but you will have to check as this is a grey area.
Good luck.
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Hi @Amanda_1803
re the GP, I’m down on S’s records as his family carer. The surgery will discuss things with me but I’m pretty sure I had to draft a letter for S to sign once he was an adult saying he gave permission for information to be shared with me. I typed a letter saying I’m happy for the doctor to talk to Melly1 etc and he signed it.
As your son’s next of kin and being a carer you should be included in any Best interests discussions regarding his health and care - however, I share your concerns that we are not always treated as equal players in such discussions and decisions.
Those with LD are unlikely to get Power of Attorney as they aren’t considered to the have the mental capacity to consent to this; if you want a formal agreement then it would be the Court of Protection route. This needs careful consideration on your part with what it involves.
You might find this guide helpful:
And this website:
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Thank you so much.
I doubt that a letter with L signature would suffice as he lacks capacity to do that.
Thank you for the links, I’ll definitely take a read of those 
Not sure S has either, but it satisfied the doctors and I refer to the letter if someone at the surgery is being awkward.