Children and adolescents - who can give consent?

Abstract

Case histories are based on actual medical negligence claims or medicolegal referrals; however certain facts have been omitted or changed by the author to ensure the anonymity of the parties involved. Can children and adolescents consent to their own medical treatment? Do general practitioners owe teenagers a duty of confidentiality? This article examines the legal obligations of GPs when obtaining consent to medical treatment from patients who are under 18 years of age.