Parental Consent
At Kootenai Health, we are committed to keeping our community informed about important changes in health care regulations. As of July 1, 2024, a new Idaho state law (Idaho Code § 32-1015) requires parental consent before certain medical services can be provided to minors. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your child receives timely and appropriate care.
Key Provisions of the New Law
Parental Consent Required
Parents must provide consent for any non-emergency health services for their minor children (under 18 years of age). This includes routine check-ups and treatments, as well as areas of care such as reproductive health care, mental health services, and immunizations.
Unless it is a medical emergency, parental consent is needed. Care will need to be delayed until the parent’s consent is received.
Emergency Situations
In cases of medical emergencies where there is a risk of death or imminent, irreparable physical injury, health care providers can administer necessary treatments without prior parental consent. Efforts will be made to contact parents as soon as possible in these scenarios.
Access to Health Information
Parents have the right to access their minor child’s health information unless prohibited by a court order or if they are involved in a criminal investigation related to the child.
What This Means for Your Child’s Visits
If your child is visiting Kootenai Health, Kootenai Clinic, or Kootenai Urgent Care, a parent or legal guardian must provide consent before certain medical services can be provided.
You may provide written consent in advance or complete the appropriate consent forms during your child’s appointment check in.
Providing Written Consent
There are two forms needed for parental consent.
- My Consent to Medical Care gives our staff permission to provide your minor child care, share their health information and receive payment for the services provided. This form has been in use for many years and needs to be completed annually.
- Consent for Treatment: Unemancipated Minor (also known as a Blanket Consent). This is a new form has been developed to ensure compliance with the new law. It provides parents the opportunity to consent to, or decline, a variety of health care services for their child. This proactive step can help facilitate uninterrupted care for your child. This form also needs to be completed annually.
Both forms are available at the hospital, Kootenai Clinic practices, Kootenai Urgent Care, and online at KH.org. Written consent can be submitted during your child’s appointment check-in or in advance.
Verbal Consent
Verbal consent is acceptable in urgent situations and should ideally be witnessed by a healthcare provider or staff member to ensure proper documentation.
Ensuring Continuous Care
At Kootenai Health, our goal is to provide the best care for your child while complying with state regulations. We encourage parents to stay informed and communicate with our health care team to ensure all necessary consents are in place.
For more information or assistance with consent forms, please contact your child’s provider’s office.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we navigate these regulatory changes together to ensure the well-being of your family.
For additional details on Idaho Code § 32-1015 (Senate Bill 1329), please visit the Idaho State Legislature website.
By staying informed and prepared, you can help us provide the best possible care for your child. Thank you for partnering with Kootenai Health to ensure a healthy future for our community.
