My ex and I were awarded Joint custody this past summer of my 13 year old daughter. He has primary physical custody and lives in Alabama. I live in Ga. He left and went to Africa and left my daughter with his new wife without discussing it with me or letting me know. He has been gone for several months and will not answer my emails. I do not know when he will return. What rights do I have as a joint custody parent and if something happened to my daughter who is 4 hours away, would his new wife be able to sign for medical treatment?

I am no expert but as her step mother she should be able to sign for treatment.

She needs a special Power of Attorney from the husband or you to be given temporary legal rights that would include signing for medical treatment. Contact a legal office.