[wtacey01]

Background:
I work in a medical office and am covered by patient confidentiality.

A few weeks ago I had to call DHHS to report a neglect/abuse issue. A mother drove 45miles to get to her appointment while coming down off of her "meds" ( opiates ). She couldn't walk and told me she couldn't drive straight, except for her kid holding the steering wheel (he's 9). She was so out of it that she doesn't remember telling me this, and blames the report on someone else.

Today - she wants information on how to become a foster parent. I'm not sure what to do....I can call my worker (whom so far rocks) and make sure that they double check incoming applications against DHHS reports? I can't give her the clients names due to confidentiality. Oh this is so frustrating. I just don't want them to slip threw the cracks and get approved. I'm thinking about mentioning the "drug testing" we had to do (they wouldn't pass if the state required it). They need the money and have the ability to fool those around them. It is not a safe place for a fosterchild/let alone their own.

[Vitality08]

The only thing i can think of is this:

when i became a foster parent, I had to get a form filled out by my doctor. My doctor had to rate my health and ability to be a foster parent. I guess if she brings the form back to you for that portion of the application process you can check "not fit". Anything else might be breaking confidentiality.

[wtacey01]

Unfortunately I am not at her PCP's office but I did forget about the health screening. Hopefully her PCP won't be bullied by her.

[ranoutofnames]

If she doesn't like the way one physician fills out a form she might always go to another physician.

Do you know what ever became of the report your called in on her? If you mention not only the drug testing but also Child Abuse Registry check she might also not be inclined to pursue.

[EandDmom]

I know when we had our first class the instructor said it always amazed her how many didn't show up the next time after they had been told about the background checks they would do. Maybe she will realize this isn't going to be a just walk in and get handed a kid and a check and will change her mind thing like I'm guessing she thinks it will be.

[Amaurosis]

Call CPS. Her current child, the nine year old, is in danger, which mandates a call to CPS. Talk to the doctor if you have any doubts.