Minors' Rights in Medical Consultations: A Parent's Guide

Minors' medical consultations

I would like to ask: My child is in the first year of junior high school (13 years old).
Recently, she took her health insurance card without permission and visited an ophthalmologist in Kaohsiung because she wanted to wear contact lenses, which her parents do not allow.
The doctor informed her that she has ingrown eyelashes and prescribed eye drops for her to use for five days.
Afterward, she was instructed to go to the adjacent optical department to get fitted for glasses.
She complied, and the staff at the optical department proceeded with the fitting.
Two days later, she was called back to pick up the glasses, and they showed her how to wear and clean them (which she did).
I would like to ask: 1.
Is it legally permissible for a clinic to allow minors to seek treatment and prescribe medication without parental consent? 2.
Can she wear contact lenses during the medication period? 3.
If the contact lenses have been opened, can they be returned? 4.
Is it true that the doctor told her that wearing contact lenses can protect the cornea? Thank you for answering the concerns of a worried mother versus a rebellious junior high school student.

Liu Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/03/05

Dr. Cai Mengru reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Liu,
Hello.
Regarding your inquiry, please find the responses below:
1.
Can a general clinic legally allow minors to consult and receive prescriptions on their own? → After investigation, there are no regulations that prohibit this.
2.
Can one wear contact lenses while on medication? → Please remove your contact lenses before applying eye drops, and wait at least 15 minutes after application before putting the contact lenses back in.
3.
Can opened contact lenses be returned? → Please discuss this with the retailer.
4.
Is it true that wearing contact lenses can protect the cornea for a seventh-grade student, as stated by the doctor? → Please confirm this with your physician.
Wishing you safety and happiness.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Tsai Meng-Ju,
Attending Physician, Family Medicine,
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
Dr.
Wang Zhang-Ji,
Chief, Ophthalmology

Reply Date: 2010/03/05

More Info

When it comes to minors and their rights in medical consultations, there are several important aspects to consider, especially in the context of your situation with your child. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your questions and providing additional context.

1. Can minors independently seek medical care and receive prescriptions?
In many jurisdictions, including the United States, minors can seek medical care without parental consent in certain situations, particularly when it comes to reproductive health, mental health, and substance abuse. However, for general medical issues, such as vision problems, the rules can vary. Typically, a minor may be able to see a doctor and receive treatment, but it is generally expected that parents or guardians are involved in the decision-making process, especially for prescriptions. In your case, since your child went to an eye doctor without your consent, this raises questions about the clinic's policies and the legal framework in your area. It is advisable to check local laws regarding minors' rights to consent to medical treatment.

2. Can your child wear contact lenses during the medication period?
If your child was prescribed eye drops for a specific condition, it is crucial to follow the doctor's advice regarding the use of contact lenses. In many cases, doctors may recommend avoiding contact lenses while using certain medications, especially if they are treating an eye infection or irritation. It’s best to consult with the prescribing doctor to get clear guidance on whether wearing contact lenses is advisable during the treatment period.

3. Can opened contact lenses be returned?
Generally, once contact lenses have been opened and used, they cannot be returned due to hygiene and safety regulations. Most optical retailers have strict policies regarding returns of opened products, including contact lenses. If there are concerns about the prescription or the fit of the lenses, it may be possible to exchange them for a different type or prescription, but this typically requires the lenses to be unopened.

4. Do glasses protect the cornea?
The claim that wearing glasses can protect the cornea is somewhat nuanced. Glasses can help correct vision and reduce strain on the eyes, which can indirectly contribute to overall eye health. However, they do not provide physical protection to the cornea in the same way that safety goggles or protective eyewear would. If your child has a specific eye condition, it’s essential to follow the advice of the eye care professional regarding the best protective measures.

In conclusion, while minors do have some rights to seek medical care independently, parental involvement is generally encouraged, especially for ongoing treatment and medication management. It’s important to maintain open communication with your child about health decisions and to consult with healthcare professionals regarding any concerns. If you have further questions about your child's treatment or rights, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider or legal expert who specializes in minors' rights in healthcare. This will ensure that you are well-informed and can advocate effectively for your child's health and well-being.

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