! Consider speaking with a medical doctor for an opinion on the victim’s bruising patterns
- If possible, consult with a doctor who is knowledgeable about elder abuse
! Request medical records that may reveal important information about the victim’s past function and abilities
- Specifically ask for the following records:
- medical photos
- descriptions and sizes of wounds
- victim’s statements about what happened
- their own opinion about the cause (if possible)
! Seek a capacity evaluation by a physician or psychologist if the decision-making capacity of the victim is a question
- Especially important for cases involving financial abuse or neglect
HIPAA & Law Enforcement Requests
If healthcare professionals express reluctance to share medical information due to HIPAA, refer them to:
- HIPAA: A Guide for Law Enforcement (PDF)
- S. Department of Health & Human Services > HIPAA > For Professionals > FAQs > When does the Privacy Rule allow covered entities to disclose protected health information to law
