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Policy regarding signing consents and filling out paperwork
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5/11/2022 @ 3:18:00 PM
Post 1 of 2

Contributor: Jerry Parmeley, SMC Family Medicine

Good afternoon.  I would be interested in discussion and policy that would address who can sign consent to treat and fill out paperwork.

Had stepmom sign the consent and sign the completed new patient paperwork.  Provider is concerned that the biological parent/guardian didn't sign the consent.  Policy to address who can sign the consent vs who cannot sign may be needed.  Currently we have a verbal (with witness), from parent, if minor has an appointment.

Thoughts on the subject?  

5/11/2022 @ 5:46:00 PM
Post 2 of 2

Contributor: Bill Finerfrock, National Association of Rural Health Clinics - Retired

Consent to Treat laws are state specific.  These can vary by age of the minor patient to different rules depending on the service requested.  For example, there are often special "consent" rules for pregnancy testing and STD testing. 

In addition, in a case where the parents of the minor are divorced, there may be specific requirements in the terms of the child custody agreement.   Feel free to share "consent to treat" policies but I would only use these as a guide for the things you may need to address.  I would recommend you contact your state medical, nursing or PA associations as they may have more relevant state-specific information upon which you will want to base your policies and procedures.


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