Need somewhere to get this out....

[scottishduffy]

Okey, a vent type thread. But I am sure someone here has more experience with this and maybe can tell me if there is anything else I need to do. Gosh, you would think that being in the medical profession myself I would be more aware of all of this. Yet, this is my first time being on the other side of the coin and I find myself thrown for a bit of a loop. I also know this is a bit of personal info going out there into the world.... but I am just looking for advice.

Situation at hand: An Uncle of mine has been involuntarily hospitalized for psychiatric reasons. We (the family) did this for his own benefit. He was Baker Acted which was signed off by two docs and then hospitalized. He has had serious psych issues since the age of 14, now age 56, but this is his first inpatient admission.

Usually my Mother is the health Care surrogate but she is out of the country and entirely unreachable until June 1. I am the next legally designated surrogate.

Uncle is now inpatient psych and the hospital is trying to tell me they will need to have a court appointed guardian. Umm. I have (and they have copies) a legal document legally designating me as his health care surrogate! Why the hell do they need a court guardian?!? The psych is trying to tell me that this only applies to health care and not Mental health care facilities. The attorney I consulted with says I am fine, I am his decision maker... but the hospital is being a pain! I have a legal health surrogate and power of attorney.... why the hell is there a possibility of a court appointed guardian? These documents are made to prevent Uncle becoming part of the state system!!

The psych is refusing to give a referral to a psychiatrist closer to my uncles home (lives 70 miles from current doc and hospital).He actually told me to 'stop wasting' his time. He is also giving info to people I dont want him too!! Helloooooo, HIPPAA! When Uncle was first hospitalized and Baker acted on thursday he *refused* to go see him until today! Didn't answer our calls until Friday at 2 pm even though he knew Uncle would have intervention on Thursday. Grrrrr..... Yes, this is also where the attorney comes in. We have had issues with this doc for awhile.

I am just worried about doing what is best for my family member. Making sure he has the care he needs and that when he is discharged we have people closer to his home that can follow him. I know I need to have my surrogacy fully acknowledged, but I am not sure what else to ask for or look out for. I am in anesthesia.... I know nothing of psych. Has anyone *kinda* been there done that and can give a few sage words of advice to a worried person here? I just want to do what is best and am not sure what the best is, since I cant trust my uncles doctor.

This is my first time taking on this role for a loved and I want to do what is best. I am just seeking any advice I can from anyone who has been there.

 

[Ember]

I have no helpful advice, but wanted to compliment you on doing such an amazing job caring for your uncle. Many people would not go to the lengths you have to ensure the safe care of a family member. This situation must be causing you a great deal of stress, and your only concern remains the care of your uncle. The world needs more people like you.

 

[MaryAnnDVC]

I'm guessing that an impartial guardian needs to be appointed since this was an involuntary commitment. Otherwise, it would be too easy for people with questionable motives to be having relatives involuntarily committed.

 

[The Mystery Machine]

Not sure. What does your attorney say? Something does not sound right here.

I would make some calls to see what this facility/doctor is up to. If you have legal POA, they do not need guardianship...

Do more digging and don't sign anything. Above all find a new psych doc. The current doc sounds like he is not acting in your uncle's best interest. You are going to have to go put pressure on people for info. It is not fun.

Baker acted is only going to get you a few days anyway, I think 2 weeks or something. It is not a great way to get admitted to begin with. You really need the support of the psych doctor to keep them in there and get help.

 

[scottishduffy]

Shamelessy bumping this thread since the boards are busier at night I may get more advice.

In response to MM: In process of finding a new psych doc, but the current one is refusing to give a recommendation to one closer to Uncles home.

Left 3 messages with appointed social worker today to discuss discharge planning/ home health/ outpatient care since his doctor is uncooperative here. Uncle is now taking meds but still uncooperative as far as his primary issue is concerned and has also been refusing to bathe/shave/ clothe himself. Doc is saying he discharge him home Friday but has been uncooperative with referrals to home health care and outpatient care.

Attorney says this doc is nuts. I am hoping the social worker can help me out. I remember my time working as a floor nurse and social workers were always great people who helped a lot with discharge planning. Holding out hope for the social worker to call me back.