Are you helping someone apply for compensation?
Usually, the person who has suffered a patient injury applies for compensation. In some cases, the applicant may want someone else to apply on their behalf, such as a relative, a close friend, or a lawyer.
If you're helping someone apply for compensation, there are some formalities you should be aware of.
If you are a relative
When someone you care about is injured in contact with the healthcare system, it can be a challenging situation. Many relatives experience grief, frustration, and uncertainty—while also trying to support the person affected.
As a relative, you can play an important role in the process. You can:
- contribute with information and insight into the case
- support the person applying for compensation—both emotionally and practically
- participate in meetings or conversations, if the applicant wishes
- be present as a fellow human being
The person helping must have a power of attorney
If the applicant wants you to represent or assist in the case, you must have a written power of attorney. Without it, we cannot provide information about the case or medical details. This applies even if you are a relative.
The power of attorney must be written and signed by the applicant. In addition, NPE must receive a copy of valid identification from the applicant. This can be a passport, driver’s license, or bank card with a personal ID number.
You’ll find a link to more information about power of attorney in the box below.
More information
If the applicant is a minor
When the applicant is a minor child, the parents with parental responsibility act as the child’s legal guardians. They can apply for compensation on behalf of the child.
If the parents do not have parental responsibility or are deceased, another guardian will be appointed. We must receive confirmation that the person submitting the case has been appointed as the child’s guardian.
In case of death
If an applicant dies while the case is being processed, the heirs may choose to continue the case to cover expenses related to the death. This may include funeral costs.
It is also possible to apply for compensation for loss of provider.
If the applicant is deceased, the person applying must include a copy of the probate certificate or other documentation showing who is entitled to inherit from the applicant.
Legal guardian
Applicants usually apply for compensation themselves. To do so, they must be able to give us permission to collect information and assess the case. This is called having the capacity to consent. If they do not have this capacity, a legal guardian must be appointed. The guardian must then complete the application form.
You can read more about guardians at vergemal.no (external link).
Do you have questions?
You are welcome to contact us if you have questions or need help understanding the roles in the application and case processing process.