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

A Private Members’ Bill amending the Health Act to allow medical professionals to treat 16-year olds without requiring parental consent was presented to the Clerk of the House on Tuesday.

The bill was presented by government whip Godfrey Farrugia and backbencher Deo Debattista. The bill will make it easier for youths to seek the advice of a medical professional on issues such as addiction, sexual health and nutrition, they said.

“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 for young people 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 mature enough to take certain decisions.