Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Can I force a family member to receive medical attention?

Can my mother, who lives in Indiana, force my sister in Washington state to receive medical attention. She says she has Hepatitis C, but has stopped seeking medical attention. She has 2 children under 18 years of age, so we are concerned that she is just giving up. Thank you very much for any information you may be able to give.

Jeff


Asked on 9/07/03, 5:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Jahnis Abelite ABELITE LAW OFFICES, P.S.

Re: Can I force a family member to receive medical attention?

This is a very difficult and sad situation. There are no laws in Washington whereby one person can force another to seek medical attention. One woul dhave to show that the sick person is not competent to make health care decisions for themselves. But, that implies thatthe person is so debilitated by sickness or disease that the person can't think straight about their health care. I would call the local health department here in Washington where the sick person lives and inquire with them about this situation.

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Answered on 9/09/03, 5:30 pm


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