Children up to twelve years of age

Children under twelve years of age cannot make their own decisions about tests or treatments. Their parents make the decisions. However, the doctor is required to explain what is going to happen in terms the child can understand.

Children ages twelve to sixteen

Children between twelve and sixteen years of age are generally capable of understanding their situation and forming their own opinion. This is why consent from the parents as well as the child is required for this age group.

Children ages sixteen and older

Once they turn sixteen, children have the same rights as adults. At that point they decide for themselves whether or not to give consent for a test or treatment. Consent from the parents is no longer required. Furthermore, doctors are no longer allowed to give parents information about the health condition of their child if the child does not want them to.