Hospital and next of kin

Ames

I went to A&E last week and put my sister down as NOK on the form. Dad got awkward and said that legally he's next of kin and it didn't matter who I put down.

So, which is right? Can I choose whoever I want or is it a legal thing that's set in stone?

dzug1

There is no precise legal definition of next of kin - not for hospital purposes anyway. You can make your own choice.

Hovel_lady

Found this here

"The term has no legal definition in the United Kingdom. An individual can nominate any other individual as their next of kin. There is no requirement for the nominated person to be a blood relative, although it is common. The nominated person must agree to the nomination, otherwise it is invalid. The status of next of kin confers no legal rights and has no special responsibilities, except as referred to below in the specific context of the Mental Health Act."

anguk

According to this you can name whoever you want to be your next of kin in hospital:
http://www.advicenow.org.uk/living-together/next-of-kin/

I'm not married to my other half and he always names me as next of kin when he's in hospital and the hospital recognise that.

Your dad may be next of kin if it came to inheritance issues but for hospital you have every right to name your sister.

Ames

Thanks everyone. I don't want either of them anywhere near if I have to go into hospital again, so it's good to know I can choose anyone I want.

Now just need to think of someone.

If I just leave it blank will it default to dad? Although I don't think they'd know his details anyway.

londonsurrey

It will default to the nearest NOK they can find. Remember, they just want the relevant forms signed. So help them carry out your wishes by stipulating exactly who you want as NOK.

Ames

I need to find someone I trust who can be my NOK then, I don't trust my dad and sister to be in control of any care I receive, especially with regards my mental health.

I might even have to look for a solicitor who could do it.

Hiddenidenity

Im glad I read this, I thought I "had" to have my Mum as my NOK at least now I know I can put my partners details thank you

Hope your ok OP

chirpchirp

This caused all sorts of issues between my Mum and myself when my Dad was diagnosed with dementia which in fact was a brain tumour.

My Mum is very religious and wished to deny certain drugs, but I pointed out that there is no legal definition. Both of us were present at his best interest meetings.

j.e.j.

When I had to name my next of kin on a hospital form, I thought it had to mean a close relative, but the nurse then asked me if it was ok to discuss my medical problem with said relative and I said no. I put the name of a friend down instead, which they said was ok.

lostinrates

When i was very ill my husband,. Then boyfriend, was my nok. However, it did create complications when they had my parents contact details which was frustrating as while i have no major issues with my parents i had nominated my (willing) oh for a particular reason.