Doctors consultations and age of resonsibility

[BigEv]

Hi All,

Can anyone tell me, at what age does a person have the legal right to refuse their parent or Guardian/chaperone attendance at a consultation with a healthcare professional?

I have always believed it to be 16 years of age.

All help appreciated.

Ev.

[Ethel]

There is no age specified by law, but a child can see a GP alone and the doctor must respect that child's wish for confidentiality except in very limited circumstances.

For example, a 13 year old girl may be prescribed the contraceptive pill without the parents' knowledge - if the doctor believes this to be the best course of action for that child.

[LoftyLottie]

Ethel is correct. Children have the right to confidentiality if they request it (as long as they have the understanding to do so - which will eliminate very young children)

[jen78]

It is up to the doctor to consider certain criteria which stems from the case of Victoria Gillick who took court action about contraceptive advice being given to underage girls.

I did my degree dissertation on it.

[BigEv]

Hi all,

Thanks for your help.

Ev.