For Patients

Care of Minors

As a Family Medicine physician, I understand the special needs of teens and their parents/guardians. Unfortunately, concerns about confidentiality may create barriers for teenagers who need medical or mental health care.

In most situations, parental consent is required for health care services for minors. However, to ensure that minors receive essential and timely access to address certain conditions, North Carolina law allows a minor to consent to prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of any of the following conditions

  • Sexually transmitted infections or other reportable communicable diseases

  • Pregnancy

  • Abuse of alcohol or controlled substances

  • Emotional disturbance

I believe that providing teenagers with confidential healthcare is important for their health and well-being.  I also recognize the immense benefit of parent/guardian support in helping adolescents make important health choices.

I will provide teenagers time separate from their parents/guardians so that they can feel free to talk to me honestly about their lives. I will also encourage teenagers to communicate openly with their parents/guardians about their health. 

However, there are certain situations where I cannot guarantee confidentiality. Parents and/or appropriate authorities will be notified as required by law in the following situations:

  • Minor is determined to be a danger to themselves or to others

  • If there is suspicion or concern for abuse or neglect