Medical Authorization of Minor Children

Medical authorization of minor children is the legal authority granted to a designated individual to make medical decisions on behalf of a minor child in the event of an emergency. Typically this would take effect if the child’s legal guardian is unavailable or incapacitated. The purpose of this authorization is to ensure a minor child can receive medical care and treatment in situations where parental consent is required but the parent or legal guardian is not present or unable to provide consent. 

Medical authorization of a minor child is granted through a legal document known as a medical authorization form or medical consent form. This document typically contains details on the medical authorization such as duration, specific medical conditions or treatments the authorization is granted for, and any limitations or restrictions on the authorization. A child’s legal guardian can grant medical authorization to one or more individuals, who are usually close family members or trusted friends.