At Good Health Family Medicine, we value both patient privacy and family involvement in care.

In British Columbia, there is no legal age of medical consent — this means a person of any age may have the capacity to make their own medical decisions and manage their own health information.

Because of this, the decision of whether a youth’s medical information is managed under their own email or a parent’s email is based on judgment and communication between the family, the patient, and the clinic.

The following information is meant to help families decide what is best for their situation.

Option 1: Youth (Age 14 and Over) Using 

Their Own Email

Pros:

• The youth has complete privacy and discretion over their own medical communication and records.

• Parents will not automatically receive messages, referrals, test results or appointment confirmations.

• Encourages youth to take responsibility for their own health care and follow-up.

Cons:

• Parents will no longer see appointment details, referrals, or results notices.

• The youth must regularly check their email to avoid missing updates or reminders.

• Clinic staff cannot share information with parents unless the youth gives consent.

NOTE: Appointment reminders or confirmations do not include the reason for the appointment, regardless of who receives them.

Option 2: Parent Using Their Email Address

Pros:

• Parents can help book, confirm, and manage appointments, ensuring nothing is missed.

• Easier for parents to track test results, referrals, and messages on behalf of their child.

Cons:

• Parents will be able to see appointment details, referrals sent, and some administrative messages.

• The youth may not have full privacy regarding their medical activity.

• The parent’s email must be checked regularly to ensure timely responses and follow-ups.

Important Notes for Families

Ages 14 and under

• It is acceptable for the parent’s email to remain the main contact and portal manager.

Ages 14–19

• We recommend that patients and parents review this information together.

• If a youth aged 14 or older wishes to use their own email, they must inform clinic staff.

• A special note will be added to their chart indicating this preference.

• It is the patient’s responsibility to contact the office if they wish to revoke parental access or make future changes.

• There is no automatic cut-off of parental access when turning 19.

Ages 19 and over

• If a patient wishes a parent or another person to continue to access their portal or records, written authorization is required. This can be provided through:

• Written consent, or

• A Power of Attorney, or

• A written explanation describing why continued parental access is appropriate.

Our physicians and staff are aware of these policies and will ensure that your preferences are respected.