AAMA CMA Practice Question

Because an emancipated minor has the same medical decision-making capacity as an adult, the clinic should document consent in the manner it does for adult patients. Most outpatient offices ask every new patient to sign a general written consent authorizing routine evaluation, treatment, and release of information for payment and operations. Although implied or verbal consent would ordinarily be legally sufficient for a basic exam, a signed form provides clear documentation and risk-management protection. Consent from a parent or guardian is unnecessary once a minor is emancipated.