How minors’ data is handled and parental access

Audience: all

When minors use telemedicine services, their health information is protected carefully. Laws and rules about who can see this information often depend on the minor's age, the type of care, and local regulations. Parents or guardians usually have access to their child's health data, but there are exceptions, especially for sensitive services like mental health or sexual health. Understanding how data is handled helps protect minors' privacy while keeping families informed. This guide explains common practices around minors’ health data, parental access, and what to expect during telemedicine visits.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If a minor or parent feels pressured to share information they are uncomfortable with, seek advice from a healthcare professional or trusted counselor.
• If there is confusion about who can access health records, contact the telemedicine provider or a legal advisor to clarify rights and protections.
• If you suspect that a minor’s health data has been shared without consent, report it immediately to the telemedicine service and relevant authorities.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing general information about minors’ health data privacy and parental access.
• Answering questions about telemedicine confidentiality and consent.
• Guiding families on how to prepare for telemedicine visits involving minors.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Offering legal advice on specific regional privacy laws.
• Making decisions about parental rights or consent.
• Diagnosing or treating medical conditions during telemedicine visits without in-person evaluation when required.

Understanding Minors’ Health Data Privacy

Minors’ health information is often protected by special privacy rules. These rules aim to balance the minor’s right to confidentiality with parents’ rights to access health information. The exact rules can vary, but generally, health providers keep sensitive information private if the minor is legally allowed to consent to care on their own.

Parental Access to Health Records

Parents or legal guardians typically have the right to access their child's health records. However, access may be limited for certain types of care, such as sexual health, mental health, or substance use treatment. Telemedicine platforms usually follow these rules to protect minors’ privacy while allowing parents to support their child’s health.

How Telemedicine Protects Minors’ Data

Telemedicine services use secure technology to keep health information private. They follow laws and best practices to protect data from unauthorized access. Patients and families can ask about how their information is stored and shared to feel confident about privacy.

When Minors Can Consent to Care

In many places, minors can consent to some health services without parental approval, such as contraception or mental health counseling. When this happens, providers often keep the information confidential. This can affect what parents can see in the medical records.

Tips for Families Using Telemedicine

Families should discuss privacy and access before telemedicine visits. Minors and parents can ask providers about what information will be shared and how to protect privacy. Clear communication helps build trust and supports good care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Confirm the minor’s age and legal rights regarding consent for the specific health service.
• Discuss privacy expectations with the minor and parent/guardian before the visit.
• Gather necessary identification and consent forms if required by the telemedicine provider.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns about privacy and data handling to discuss during the visit.
• Ensure a private, quiet space for the minor to participate in the telemedicine session confidentially if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Review any information shared during the visit and clarify privacy settings with the provider if needed.
• Follow up on any referrals or additional care recommended during the telemedicine visit.
• Keep records of consent and communications about privacy for future reference.
• Discuss with the minor and parent any questions or concerns about data access after the visit.
• Contact the telemedicine provider promptly if there are concerns about data privacy or parental access.

FAQs

Can parents always see their minor child's telemedicine health records?

Parents usually have access to their minor child's health records, but there are exceptions. For some sensitive services, like mental health or sexual health, minors may have rights to keep information confidential. Rules vary by location and the type of care.

How is my minor child's data kept private during telemedicine visits?

Telemedicine platforms use secure technology and follow privacy laws to protect health information. Providers limit access to authorized individuals and use encrypted connections to keep data safe.

Can minors consent to telemedicine care without their parents?

In many areas, minors can consent to certain types of care on their own, such as contraception or counseling. When this happens, their information may be kept confidential from parents, depending on local laws.

What should families do if they are unsure about privacy rules for minors?

Families can ask the telemedicine provider about privacy policies and parental access. They may also seek advice from healthcare professionals or legal experts to understand their rights and protections.

What happens if a minor's health data is shared without consent?

If health information is shared without proper consent, it is important to report this to the telemedicine provider and relevant authorities. Protecting privacy is a legal and ethical responsibility of healthcare providers.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus: Privacy and Confidentiality — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Confidentiality and Minor Consent Laws — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Telehealth and Privacy — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Patient Privacy and Confidentiality — Mayo Clinic.

This guide provides general information about telemedicine privacy and parental access for minors. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions about your or your child's health or privacy rights.