What medical information can parents access about their 17-year-old daughter?

Full question:

My daughter is 17, and resides in Alaska with her Maternal Uncle. She went to an OB/GYN to receive medical treatment. After seeing the doctor, she called my wife and stated, "My life is over," and was very distraught. The doctor has refused to release any information regarding my daughter's medical treatment. However, neither the Maternal Uncle, nor either my wife or I, was ever contacted regarding consent for medical treatment. I understand that in Alaska, the physician does not have to disclose details regarding treatment for pregnancy or for an STD. What information are we, as parents, entitle to from the treating physician?

  • Category: Minors
  • Date:
  • State: Alaska

Answer:

In Alaska, the law allows certain minors to consent to their own medical treatment without parental involvement. Here are the key points:

  • A minor living apart from their parents and managing their own finances can consent to medical services.
  • If a parent cannot be contacted or is unwilling to provide consent, the minor can still receive treatment, but the provider should consider the interests of both the minor and the parents.
  • A minor who is a parent can consent to medical services for themselves or their child.
  • Minors can consent to treatment related to pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • Parents are not financially responsible for services consented to by the minor under these circumstances.

Thus, as parents, you may not have access to specific details about your daughter's treatment, particularly if she consented to it herself under these laws (Alaska Stat. § 25.20.025).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In most states, including Alaska, there is no specific age requirement for a minor to go to the hospital alone. However, if a minor is 17, they can generally seek medical treatment without parental consent, especially for sensitive issues like reproductive health or STDs. It's important to note that hospitals may still contact parents in emergencies or for other reasons, but a 17-year-old can independently seek care. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*