How should you protect minors' health information in a pediatric encounter?

• A. Maintain confidentiality; disclose to parents only as allowed by law and policy; defer to clinician or supervisor.
• B. Share all information with parents regardless of policy.
• C. Post the information in the waiting room for accessibility.
• D. Cancel the appointment to protect privacy.

Answer: (A)

Protecting a minor’s health information hinges on confidentiality and proper disclosure guided by law and policy. In pediatrics, you keep information private to the extent allowed, because open, trustworthy communication with the clinician depends on privacy. You share information with parents only when the law and institutional policies permit or require it, and you defer to the clinician or supervisor if there’s any doubt about what can be disclosed. This approach supports the minor’s safety and autonomy while ensuring appropriate parental involvement in care.

Sharing everything with parents regardless of policy, posting confidential information in the waiting room, or canceling an appointment to protect privacy all violate standard privacy practices and can compromise care and trust.