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How can I get answers to questions about my loved one’s treatment? There may be privacy regulations at the hospital that will keep you from finding out about your loved one’s treatment. These rules are there to protect your loved one, not to keep you out. Ask hospital staff what you can do to find out more. Your loved one may be able to ask that the restrictions be removed. There will probably be several professionals treating your loved one. This may include a psychiatrist, therapist, social worker, psychiatric nurse and psychiatric technician. It may be difficult to reach hospital staff who can give you information about your loved one, especially at the beginning of treatment. You may need to try several times before you reach someone who can help you. Keep trying. Write down the name of your loved one’s psychiatrist and therapist, and other hospital staff that work with your loved one, and the best time to reach them with questions. Write down the questions you have and the answers you are given. Keep questions specific and to the point. Be patient, polite and assertive. Ask for clarification of things you do not understand. Keep a record of your communications with hospital staff, including the times of calls, who you talk to and what you find out. If the staff is not responding, try calling the ombudsman or hospital administrator. If possible, schedule a meeting for you, your loved one, other family members and hospital staff to talk about treatment and other concerns. Before your loved one is released, make sure there are written instructions for treatment, e.g., what medications should be taken and when, who to see for follow-up care and when, and what professionals are available in case of emergency. Write down any changes in diet or activity your loved one needs to make because of treatment.
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