Re: Doctor-Patient Privilege for Minors

More | Report Post

On 6/27/08, Michael wrote:
> In the state of Indiana, if a 16 year old girl tells her
> physician information that she doesn't want her parents to
> know, does doctor-patient privilege prevent him from saying
> anything?

The doctor-patient privilege only precludes the doctor from
testifying in court about issues that are private between
doctor and patient. It's purpose is to suppress evidence. The
privilege belongs to the patient.

Also, the doctor may be inclined to discuss medical matters
with a minor's parents because they are the child's legal
guardian.

If the issue concerns an abortion, then there may be a statute
in Indiana that provides for the minor's privacy. However,
under Hodgson v. Minnesota, 497, U.S. 417, the Supreme Court
decided that even emancipated minors need consent from either
their parents or a judge before getting an abortion.