What is required before releasing a minor's medical information?

Releasing a minor's medical information typically requires parental or guardian permission due to legal and ethical considerations surrounding minors' privacy rights. In many jurisdictions, minors are not considered legally capable of making medical decisions on their own, and thus, parents or legal guardians must provide consent before any medical information can be disclosed. This requirement ensures that the rights and privacy of the minor are protected while also acknowledging that parents are generally responsible for the health and well-being of their children.

While it is true that certain circumstances allow minors to consent to specific types of medical treatment or information disclosure (as seen in some adolescent health scenarios), the general rule in most cases is that parental permission is mandatory for releasing medical information. This reinforces the healthcare system's commitment to safeguarding sensitive personal health data and ensuring that appropriate guardians are involved in the care process.