Have you or your child reached 16 years of age?

We have had an increase in parents calling up to discuss their 16 or 17 years olds medical matters recently. unfortunately the law states that we are unable to discuss anything with parents or guardians unless there is consent on the patients notes.

When a person reaches the age of 16 years, they are no longer a child and if the person has capacity, then they are within their rights to allow or not allow a parent to talk or discuss medical matters on their behalf, If a person reaches this age and lacks capacity due to a medical condition, then different rules apply.

Please do not be offended when the reception or administration team remind you of this because they are only following the law. Patients over the age of 16 years if age do have the same right to privacy and confidentiality as everyone else within the NHS does.

If you are 16 years of age and above and you wish for your parent or guardian to be able to discuss all your medical matters, then please ask at reception for a consent form. This consent can be removed and revoked at any time.

If you are 16 years of age and you do not want for your parent or guardian to be able to discuss all your medical matters, then ensure we have an up-to date mobile/telephone number or email so if we need to contact you then we will contact you direct. Please inform reception of your mobile/telephone number or email address.