Defense Dept. Excludes Parents from Kids’ Medical Care & Records

Controversial Adolescent ‌Health Policies in ‌the Military

The Department of Defense (DOD) has quietly implemented controversial adolescent health policies throughout the military health system (MHS) that kick in when children⁢ turn 12 years old.

Most parents are shocked to find out that ‌doctors prefer to treat their⁣ adolescent​ children in a‌ completely parent-free setting. This lack of transparency and trust in parents has sparked outrage among parents who feel they should have a say in their child’s healthcare decisions.

Let me share my personal experience with you, as I embarked on a quest for answers regarding limited online medical record access and being asked​ to leave the room during my‌ child’s medical appointments.

Two years ago, my⁢ family made a military move overseas. During our first‌ well-child visit to the base medical clinic, the doctor informed me that I would be required to ⁣leave the exam room at the next year’s appointment⁢ so she could ask my child more “invasive” questions as she entered adolescence. This came‍ as a surprise to me, and it only got‍ more concerning when I ⁣discovered that I was barred from accessing my child’s online medical record ⁣once they turned 12.

When I asked the doctor ​for ‌an explanation, she claimed ⁣it was “above her paygrade.” Unsatisfied with this vague response, I took matters into my own hands and began seeking answers.

State Variations in Medical Record Policies

While waiting for the official policy, which seemed to be a well-kept secret, I delved into research on civilian electronic health records (EHR) systems and policies regarding adolescent ⁣confidentiality and consent. I discovered that managing EHR systems for adolescents is challenging ​due ‌to varying state laws on minor consent and⁣ confidentiality.

It’s​ important for military parents to understand that their ​rights can differ significantly depending on ⁤the state they are in. State laws can override the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), potentially limiting parents’ ⁤access to their children’s medical records.

For example, California ‌law allows minors to obtain an abortion without parental involvement or notification, while Florida law requires parental consent and notification for minors seeking an abortion. These variations highlight the need for parents to be⁤ aware‌ of their rights and the policies in​ their specific state.

Doctors’ Preference for Alone⁢ Time with Kids

Doctors often request that parents‍ leave the⁤ exam room during well-child checks to conduct a psychosocial assessment without parental interference. This practice is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics ‌(AAP) but has become highly politicized.

Parents understandably feel outraged that doctors can ask ⁢invasive questions about their child’s sexual life and other sensitive topics while excluding them from the conversation. This raises concerns about ‍the trust placed in medical personnel over parents.

DOD Policy and the Role of Bureaucrats

After months of investigation and submitting requests‍ for information, I finally obtained the DOD policy on disclosure‌ of protected health information (PHI) for military minors. The policy states that disclosure is guided by the state law where the treatment is received.

However, when conflicting state laws arise, the Defense ⁤Health Agency (DHA) sets the policy in the absence of state law. This means that ​DHA, composed of unelected bureaucrats, ultimately decides the policies⁤ that affect military parents and their access to their children’s medical​ records.

It’s ⁢disheartening to realize that in the absence of clear state law⁤ guidance, federal law is not‌ the fallback option. Instead, policies created by unelected ⁤bureaucrats take precedence, leaving parents feeling powerless and excluded from their child’s healthcare decisions.

Protecting⁤ Parental Rights and Child ⁤Safety

It’s evident that ⁤military parents cannot rely solely⁤ on the system they once trusted to care for their children. In light of ‍these concerning policies, it’s crucial for parents ⁤to push back, stay‍ informed,​ and advocate for ‍their rights.

Parents should actively participate in their child’s medical appointments, ​especially if the doctor is a⁤ stranger. By staying involved, parents can​ ensure the health and safety of their children and maintain the vital parent-child relationship.