Children And Young People Flashcards
What is the legal legislation for decisions about children’s health?
Children Act 1989, which promotes the safeguarding of children and their welfare.
When can children make decisions regarding their own health?
If they are under 16, and assessed to be Gillick competent.
Children aged 16-18 are allowed to make decisions about accepting treatment, however they cannot refuse treatment. Parents and courts can override the treatment refusal of those aged 16-18.
What is Gillick competency?
A young person under 16 with the capacity to consent to medical decisions, which is context dependent on the type of treatment
What role do parent have in making health decisions for their child?
Principle of parental autonomy which states that:
Parents know their child best
They will have their best interests in mind
What are the roles of doctors for promoting child welfare from abuse?
Possessing the knowledge and skills to recognise signs of abuse and neglect
Taking appropriate and prompt action, working closely with interagencies like social services and the police
Skills to work closely with parents and family
What is the duty of confidentiality towards children?
Doctors owe children confidentiality in regards to health except in situations where it is a public interest that poses a serious risk to the child or another person.
What is the duty of confidentiality of children for sexual health services?
Owed confidentiality when under 16 if:
You cannot persuade them to tell their parents or let you tell them
They understand all aspects of the advice and its implications
They are likely to have sex with or without treatment
Physical or mental health is likely to suffer without treatment
