Do minors in NY seeking family planning, STD, chemical dependence, and mental illness treatment need parental consent?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Depends on service
• D. Only with parental consent if under 18

Answer: (B)

Minors in New York can consent to certain health care services on their own, without parental involvement, to encourage access and protect confidentiality in sensitive areas. Specifically, young people may seek family planning and contraception, as well as testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, without needing a parent’s consent. They can also consent to mental health treatment and to treatment for substance use (chemical dependence) in many outpatient settings when they are capable of understanding the issues and the consequences. The aim is to remove barriers and reduce stigma or fear of disclosure that might keep minors from getting care. There are always nuances—for example, emergencies or questions about a minor’s capacity can affect consent in practice—but for these services, parental consent is not required.