(The Center Square) – Consent from parents or guardians for minors getting medical treatment will be required before physicians can act, says a bill that next goes to the floor of the North Carolina House of Representatives.
In the Rules Committee on Monday evening, the proposal advanced from more than a dozen under consideration. It is on the calendar for Tuesday.
Parents’ Medical Bill of Rights, or House Bill 519, makes exceptions for emergency treatments needed to save a child’s life or for treatment of a child whose identity is unknown. It also exempts treatment for suspected abuse that doctors are other health care professionals already required under North Carolina to be reported to authorities.
“House Bill 519 is about restoring balance and transparency in the doctor-patient relationship,” said its sponsor, Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, R-Henderson.
Under the bill medical professionals can consult with minors about their health without parental permission.
“But when it comes to treatment, parental consent must be obtained unless it’s an emergency or mandated reporting situation,” Balkcom told the committee. “This ensures that parents are informed participants in their child’s health care, especially when it involves long-term implications, while preserving key expectations of emergencies and abuse reporting.”
Rep. Allison Dahle, D-Wake County, expressed concern that the bill will discourage children from telling their physicians about venereal disease and other sensitive conditions.
“I’m concerned that this will cut kids from even getting help,” Dahle said. “I want children to get the health care they need. If they’re scared, I want some pathway.”
For sexually transmitted disease, the legislation provides an except for minors who are at least 16, Balkcom responded.
“Children should not be expected to navigate these serious things without their parents,” Balkcom said. “Currently, the law allows a 12-year-old to receive birth control, an IUD implanted inside of them even, and mental health prescriptions.”
Parental knowledge can help ensure that minors are taking their medications as prescribed, and that the medications are safe, she added.
