As a parent, ensuring the safety and well-being of your child is always a top priority. However, if you are out of town and your minor child remains in the care of a relative, friend or nanny/babysitter, an emergency medical situation could arise. If you are unreachable, your child’s caretaker may not have the legal authority to make medical decisions on behalf of your child. This could delay necessary medical treatment and put your child at risk.
Why a Medical Authorization Form is Essential
Many parents assume that if they leave their child in the care of a trusted individual, that person will automatically have the authority to approve medical treatment in case of an emergency. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In California, a doctor or dentist cannot provide treatment to a minor, other than in life-threatening emergencies, without the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
Fortunately, California Family Code Section 6910 allows parents to sign a document that grants a designated caregiver the authority to make medical decisions for their minor child. This medical authorization form ensures that if an emergency arises, the caretaker can seek prompt medical attention for the child without unnecessary delays.
What Should Be Included in a Medical Authorization Form?
A properly drafted medical authorization form should include:
- The child’s full name and date of birth
- The full name and contact information of the parents or legal guardians
- The full name and contact information of the authorized caregiver
- A statement granting the caregiver the authority to seek medical care and make treatment decisions for the child
- Any specific medical conditions, allergies, or medications the child is taking
- The name and contact information of the child’s primary physician and dentist
- A signature from the parent or legal guardian, along with the date
Some parents also choose to have this document notarized to ensure its validity and recognition by medical professionals.
When Should You Use a Medical Authorization Form?
A medical authorization form is particularly important in the following situations:
- When parents are traveling out of town and leaving their child with a caretaker
- If a child frequently stays with grandparents or other relatives
- When a child is attending an overnight camp or extended daycare program
- In situations where a nanny or babysitter regularly provides care
By preparing this form in advance, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their child’s caregiver has the legal authority to act in their best interest in case of a medical emergency.
Ensuring Proper Medical Care for Your Child
Emergencies are unpredictable, and having a medical authorization form in place can make a significant difference in ensuring that your child receives timely and appropriate care. Without this document, medical professionals may be unable to provide treatment until they obtain parental consent, which could cause unnecessary delays in urgent situations.
Taking a few minutes to prepare a medical authorization form before traveling or leaving your child in the care of another adult can help prevent stressful situations and ensure that your child’s health and safety are protected. If you would like assistance with creating this document, please contact our Intake Department at 760-448-2220 or visit https://www.geigerlawoffice.com/contact.cfm for expert legal guidance. We serve clients in San Diego and Orange Counties and provide support to families throughout California.
