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News & Knowledge

Pennsylvania Handbook: Treatment of Minors

UNTIL WHAT AGE IS A PATIENT CONSIDERED A MINOR?

Generally, in Pennsylvania a child is considered minor until the age of 21; however, under MCARE §513, a “minor” is an individual who has not yet attained the age of 18 years.

In Pennsylvania, state statute recognizes the rights of minors to make certain healthcare decisions. It is common risk management practice to seek the consent of parents for non-emergency treatment of unemancipated minors whenever possible. Consent of another person is not required for the situations noted below.

UNDER WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES MAY MINORS MAKE HEALTHCARE DECISIONS FOR THEMSELVES?

In Pennsylvania, minors may make healthcare decisions in the following situations:

  • A person under the age of 21 years may…

Curi’s risk mitigation resources and guidance are offered for educational and informational purposes only. This information is not medical or legal advice, does not replace independent professional judgment, does not constitute an endorsement of any kind, should not be deemed authoritative, and does not establish a standard of care in clinical settings or in courts of law. If you need legal advice, you should consult your independent/corporate counsel. We have found that using risk mitigation efforts can reduce malpractice risk; however, we do not make any guarantees that following these risk recommendations will prevent a complaint, claim, or suit from occurring, or mitigate the outcome(s) associated with any of them.

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