16. April 2009: Medical Treatment of Pregnant Minor

Question:

Hello, I have a very urgent question that I need answered as soon as possible. If a 17 year old is pregnant, and decides to move away from her parents, what can she do about doctor appointments? My sister is pregnant and 17, and moved away from our parents. I am 19 and unfamiliar with this. She needs to know whether a parent must be with her at the hospital to sign releases and what not. She is so confused. She needs to have regular check-ups just in case something goes wrong. She is on Medicaid. Does a hospital consider her a minor that needs a parent signature? Do you know if they can refuse her because she is only 17? Please write back, this is very urgent. Thank you. ...More