Why Every College Student in Pennsylvania Needs a Health Care Power of Attorney

Turning 18 is an exciting milestone. For parents and young adults alike, it often means new freedom, new responsibility, and new legal realities. What many families don’t realize, however, is that once a child becomes a legal adult, parents no longer have automatic authority to make medical or financial decisions on their child’s behalf.

Under federal privacy laws (HIPAA) and Pennsylvania law, once a child turns 18, parents cannot access medical information, speak with doctors, or make health care decisions in an emergency unless their child has signed the proper legal documents.

That’s why it’s so important for college-aged adults to have a Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA), Living Will, and HIPAA Authorization in place before leaving for school. Without these authorizations, even well-intentioned parents may be left waiting for updates or unable to direct care in a crisis.

For instance, without a Health Care Power of Attorney in place, if a college student is injured in a car accident and becomes unconscious, the hospital may refuse to release information or accept consent from the parents. Additionally, if a student is traveling overseas and becomes seriously ill, a properly executed Health Care Power of Attorney and HIPAA Authorization allows their parent or guardian to coordinate medical care from home.

A Health Care Power of Attorney allows your child to name a trusted adult — typically a parent, relative, or close friend — to communicate with doctors, review medical information, and make health care decisions if the student becomes incapacitated.

Paired with a Living Will (Advance Directive) and HIPAA Authorization, these documents ensure that care aligns with your child’s wishes and that parents can act quickly when needed.

Preparing these documents is straightforward and typically completed after one quick consultation visit — but it can prevent unnecessary delay and confusion during medical emergencies.

Estate planning isn’t only for retirees or families with significant assets. It’s about preparation, protection, and peace of mind — values that apply at every stage of life. For college students, a simple set of documents can make all the difference when life takes an unexpected turn.