JRAP Guide: Consent to Medical Treatment by Minors in Massachusetts

Abstract

This JRAP Guide is designed for health care providers, social service agency employees, and other practitioners who connect young people with the health care they need. As this Guide explains, while the age of consent for all medical treatment in Massachusetts is generally eighteen, those under eighteen may consent to a wide range of services — even without parental authorization — depending on the circumstances. This Guide highlights the special consent issues that may arise for youth who are involved with the Department of Children and Families or the Department of Youth Services. While these issues may seem complicated at first glance, the governing law and regulations are described in a clear manner and frequently asked questions are addressed.

Keywords: juvenile justice, Department of Social Services, DSS, CHINS, Child In Need of Services, medical treatment, Department of Youth Services