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Updated: Aug 19, 2025

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Published on: November 9, 2016
Adolescent Confidentiality and Consent in an Emergency Setting
Lauren Mientkiewicz1, Purva Grover2
1From the Staff Physician and Assistant Medical Director (Mientkiewicz), Emergency Services Institute, Pediatric Emergency Department, Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Adolescent patients can consent to emergency care, including sensitive services, without parental permission. Understanding these laws ensures better healthcare access and trust for young individuals seeking medical attention.
Area of Science:
- Medical Law and Ethics
- Adolescent Healthcare
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Adolescents represent a significant portion of emergency department visits, often facing healthcare access challenges.
- This vulnerable population requires careful consideration of medical care consent and confidentiality laws.
- Emergency settings present unique legal and ethical dilemmas in treating minors.
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted to review existing laws and standard practices.
- Key aspects of adolescent confidentiality and informed consent in emergency care were examined.
- Findings were compiled into a review article for healthcare providers.
Key Points:
- Adolescents can independently consent to emergency care, including services for STIs, mental health, substance abuse, and reproductive health.
- Emancipated and mature minors possess the legal right to refuse or consent to medical treatment.
- Specific state laws govern adolescent consent and confidentiality, requiring provider awareness.
Conclusions:
- Navigating patient confidentiality and informed consent for adolescents is complex but crucial.
- Confidentiality and trust encourage adolescents to seek necessary emergency care.
- While respecting confidentiality, providers should also encourage open communication between adolescents and their parents regarding health matters.
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