Insurance and Legal Changes
Health insurance helps with the cost of seeing a doctor, getting medications, and any time you are in the hospital. Health insurance can be confusing at first, but by learning the basics you will learn how to use your insurance to get the care you need. There are different ways people can get health insurance plans:
- From the government
- From their parents or caregivers
- From their job
- From a Health Insurance Marketplace (Covered CA)
As you get older, your options for health insurance will change, and it is important to know how to get insurance and when changes will happen. Learn more about the different types of health insurance, definitions of terms used and how to get it.
An important part of preparing for adult care is understanding the legal changes that happen when you turn 18. At 18, all patients are legally recognized as adults and gain the right to consent for their own medical care and choose who can access their protected health information (PHI). Learn more from GotTransition’s resource guide.
18+ CHOC Release
Changes at 18 years old can be scary, and you may still need support from your parent or guardian. This consent form allows the people you list to continue to be involved in helping you manage your care. If you want another adult to have access to your health information, talk to your physician prior to your next appointment to discuss.
18+ CHOC Release (English) | 18+ CHOC Release (Spanish)
Release Of Information (ROI) for Shared Medical Records
As you approach graduation from CHOC and start meeting with new doctors who see adults, you will need to share your medical records. CHOC needs your permission to send your medical information to doctors outside of CHOC. You will need to give CHOC permission with a formal consent form and request. Complete this electronic consent form with the information of your new doctor and CHOC will send them your records.
Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Primary Care
For help on how to find a new provider, you can use our guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions
An important part of preparing for adult care is understanding the legal changes that happen when you turn 18. The sections below highlight the legal changes that all patients should be aware of and how best to plan.
Shared decision-making is a process where the patient, doctor and patient’s identified supporter (parent, caregiver or trusted adult) make choices together about tests, care and treatment options. All patients benefit from shared decision-making, and this should be something you feel comfortable talking to your care team about.
The transition from adolescence to adulthood can be complicated when a young adult has a developmental or intellectual disability. Many individuals with intellectual disabilities will require ongoing support. To learn more about decision-making supports, visit the Youth with Disabilities section.
For additional information on decision-making laws, including guardianship, that help people with disabilities receive the support they need, check out yourLimited Conservatorships & Alternatives options.
