[Beccayinn]

I have a question for those that are any more experienced than me! Which is probably about everyone here.

I don't know how confidentiality differs from state to state, but the law reads in IA that I cannot share any identifying information about any foster child (other than to dr's/lawyers/DHS etc) to anyone without consent of the guardian - who would normally be the parents, I assume.

The example given specifically says I cannot tell my friends or extended family even the child's name. Now, exception is given if I obtain the information FROM the foster child themselves. So, that would be okay, except that an infant can hardly tell you their name. And I have a 2 mth old. They can't tell you anything.

This seems silly and ridiculous. I certainly don't want to get parents to sign a piece of paper stating that I can introduce the child. So, do I ignore their rule that is clearly defined in all the paper I am getting by introducing the child by their name.


Also I am getting other conflicting information. I read that I cannot give ANY medical care, routine or otherwise, without consent from parents. Not the caseworker. But, when I try to get this consent, the caseworker seems more than happy to authorize treatment and I feel like it would be silly to fight it.

Is this normal? If it is normal to ignore the rules and use common sense, fine. I would much prefer to work that way, but I suppose I am the one with my tushie on the line, if something ever goes wrong.

Also, I hate to question the social workers on their own rules. So far, I have a good working relationship with them. I think I will just tick them off if I insist they play by the rules. I want to do what is best for my FC, but I don't want to be in trouble by flaunting the rules either.

I suppose I should get used to stuff like this, but I am one of those Type A rule followers......UGH!

[nikitabear1979]

I am in IA as well. I think when they say you can't say tell the child's name they are refering to the last name. We were told in MAPP class to introduce the childen by saying " This is firstname they will be staying with us for a while." Most people will know you do foster care and know the situation with out having to tell them.

Also about getting consent on Dr. apptments and other things- We have reverted to using the transport worker. She is much more willing to work with us and keep us informed than the case worker. ( Who Still hasn't met our boys and they have been with us 5 months today!) She has actually taken consent forms for field trips from the preschool and had the Bio Mom sign them as well as had her okay dentist appts and the like at the boy's visits.

I hope this helps a little