Bill to allow 16-year olds obtain medical help without parental consent presented

A Private Members’ Bill amending the Health Act was presented to the Clerk of the House by government Whip Godfrey Farrugia and backbencher Deo Debattista. The amendment is intended to allow medical professionals to treat 16 and 17-year olds without requiring the consent of their parents.

This, they said,  would make it easier for them to seek the advice of a professional on issues such as addiction, sexual health and nutrition.

“Youths are already seeking doctors’ advice without their parents’ consent, however this amendment will go a long way in ensuring that they are not inhibited from going to the doctor, while also protecting professionals working in the medical field,” said Farrugia.

While the intention is to make it easier to seek medical help, there will be provisions that allow a doctor to ask for a the consent of  a parent in cases where the patient is deemed not be mature enough to make certain decisions.