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News & Knowledge

Georgia Handbook: Treatment of Minors

UNTIL WHAT AGE IS A PATIENT CONSIDERED A MINOR?

In Georgia, a person under the age of 18 is considered to be a minor. With the exception of treatment for certain conditions, medical practices must obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian before treating a minor.

CAN EMANCIPATED MINORS MAKE HEALTHCARE DECISIONS FOR THEMSELVES?

According to Georgia Code § 15-11-201, emancipation occurs:
  • when a minor is validly married;
  • when a person reaches the age of 18 years; or
  • during the period when the minor is on active duty with the armed forces of the United States; or
  • by court order upon petition of a minor.
An emancipated minor can consent to any medical, dental, or psychiatric treatment for himself or herself independent of a parent or guardian.…

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