Check State Laws Before Changing Charts
Question: A teenaged patient has asked that we not discuss any of their care or medical information with their parents. Are we legally allowed to withhold this information from them? AAPC Forum Participant Answer: The answer to this question will depend upon your individual state laws. While in some states, minors are legally allowed to consent to treatment, others require parental approval for specific services. As long as your office adheres to local legal requirements, the patient’s records can remain confidential, however. Make note: Should the child pose a risk to themselves or others, it’s crucial to record this and alert any necessary authorities as dictated by your local laws or licensing rules. If the child isn’t a threat and you’re legally allowed to uphold confidentiality, you can mark “DO NOT COPY OR RELEASE TO GUARDIANS” in the patient’s chart, electronic medical record (EMR), or electronic health record (EHR). Also, some doctors choose to store such sensitive documentation separately in a confidential file. Lindsey Bush, BA, MA, CPC, Production Editor, AAPC
