Who must provide permission for treatment of a client under 16?

• A. A Parent/Guardian must provide personal or written permission
• B. The minor can consent independently
• C. Consent is not required for minors
• D. Consent must be provided by a medical professional

Answer: (A)

Consent for treating someone under 16 centers on who is legally authorized to make medical decisions for a minor. In most contexts, minors lack the legal capacity to consent on their own, so a parent or legal guardian must provide permission before treatment can proceed. The child’s input matters and they may be asked for assent, but the final decision rests with the parent or guardian who has the legal responsibility for the child’s welfare. There are exceptions in some jurisdictions where older or mature minors can consent to certain services, or in emergencies where treatment is needed to prevent harm, but the usual rule for general medical care is parental consent. A medical professional does not grant permission on behalf of the child; they present information and obtain consent from the parent or guardian.