Wiki Pediatric patients attend visits on their own

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In our pediatric practice, parents sometimes will send their children to their appointments by themselves. Does anyone have a policy around this issue? Or recommend parameters so we can make a policy for our office?

Thank you!
 
I would be concerned that parents are sending children to the doctor with out an adult accompanying them. That being said, if the child is old enough to drive themselves then it is less of a concern than if they just drop the child off. If treatment is required who authorizes it if the child in under 18? This opens multiple issues such as supervision of the child, making sure the child understands the instructions given to them by the provider, and it opens the provider up to allegations that would be a determinant to the child and the provider.

I recommend you check local laws regarding the age of consent in your state. I would also discourage the parents from this practice.

Hope this helps.
 
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