Access to Medicare records - Government's approach regressive
AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, today urged Health Minister Tony Abbott not to include changes to parental access to young people's medical records in any health policy reforms he may be considering.
Dr Glasson said he had serious concerns that the changes announced today could undermine the relationship between young people and their doctors.
"To lift the age at which parents can have open access to a young person's medical records to 16 would be a regressive step," Dr Glasson said.
"As young people move through adolescence, their relationships with their families and communities change.
"Issues relating to mental health, self-esteem, body image and sexuality are more prominent as self-awareness increases and young people develop their own identity.
"For many young people, the transition to independence and self-reliance is achieved with relative safety and is seen as a time for self-exploration and growth.
"For others, however, it is a time of increased exposure to health-compromising behaviors such as eating disorders, alcohol and other drug abuse, use of tobacco, and unsafe sexual practices.
"Compared with the rest of the community, young people often find it hard to access health services. This may be because of a lack of financial independence, lack of self-determination, inadequate access to transport, legal or regulatory age limits, domestic responsibilities, emotional immaturity, communication difficulties, lack of experience or information, cultural differences, generational changes, time limitations, and geographic location.
"When it comes to their health, young people are concerned about issues such as communication and compassion - but most importantly - confidentiality.
"If parents have concerns regarding the health services their children are accessing, then they should discuss this with their children.
"Where possible and developmentally appropriate, doctors should afford young people the same respect, rights and responsibilities as older patients. If a young person is able to make autonomous decisions regarding medical treatment, and wishes that treatment to remain confidential, then their doctor must respect and maintain that confidentiality.
"Young people must have access to a wide range of confidential, youth-friendly health services that are accessible in both urban and rural settings," Dr Glasson said.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306