For years, teens in Minnesota have been able to access health care services like birth control, STI testing and treatment and chemical dependency treatment without necessarily needing their parents to be informed about their actions.  Now, the Republican Party wants to bring that to an end.

Angela Braun writes:

A GOP proposal before the Minnesota legislature wants to require minors to obtain written parental consent before having access to some basic young adult healthcare services. These services include pregnancy testing and birth control prescription, STD testing and chemical abuse help. If the proposal becomes law, it would overturn a four-decades old statute that allows minors to see a doctor without parental permission.

From the St. Paul Pioneer Press:

“Such a change would set Minnesota apart from most other states, according to one group that tracks sexual and reproductive health issues. And opponents warn the measure could prevent some young people from seeking care because they’re embarrassed or afraid to talk to their parents about their situation.

Minnesota’s current law prevents doctors from disclosing medical information to parents unless the patient agrees or the health issue poses immediate harm. The new proposal also would give parents access to their children’s medical records.

If the choice is between my child seeking to make him or herself healthy without my permission, or suffering because he or she is afraid to notify me about what is going on, I seriously hope my kids can get help.  I will always wants a health child over one that I know every private detail about.