Empowering Minors To
Make Informed Health Decisions
This website is dedicated to minors in Arizona interested in learning more about their rights in healthcare as minors.
For inquiries email [email protected]
Medical Rights as A Minor
1. Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), minors have some privacy rights, but parents are often seen as extensions of the minor, meaning they can access certain health information.More about HIPAA regarding minors
2. Doctors may choose to speak with you alone during appointments to allow you to express concerns freely.
3. Minors cannot consent to most medical treatments without parental permission, except for services like sexual health or substance abuse treatment in some states.
4. You have the right to ask your doctor if parts of your conversation can be kept confidential — especially for services that don't require parental consent.
Confidential Services Minors in Arizona can access
STI testing and treatment : Minors can get tested and treated for sexually transmitted infections without needing a parent’s approval.
Birth control : Certain contraceptives are available to minors without the need of parental consent.
Substance abuse treatment : Minors can seek help for drug or alcohol dependency on their own
Emergency medical care : Minors can seek help for drug or alcohol dependency on their own
Majority of these services can be accessed at Mariposa Clinic located at
How to Advocate for yourself as a minor
Know Your Rights: Minors in Arizona can access certain health services without parental consent — understanding these rights empowers you to seek help when you need it.Ask for Clarity: Doctors are there to support your health — asking for clear explanations helps you make informed decisions.Come Prepared: Writing down your questions and symptoms shows you're taking responsibility for your health journey.Own Your Voice: Speaking up about your concerns proves that minors can be active participants in their own care.Consider a Second Opinion:Advocating for yourself by seeking another perspective shows confidence in your right to make decisions.Use Credible Resources: Trusted organizations can give minors the knowledge they need to make informed health choices independently.
How to talk to your doctor confidentially
Ask your doctor if you can speak with them alone. In many cases for minors parents will attend appointments, if you want to speak with your doctor alone make your request known and they will find a way to speak to you privately.Be honest. Share your concerns with your doctor, remember that doctors can not fully help if they don't know the full story.Express your want to keep this private. Patient Confidentiality is important but can get tricky with minors. Emphasizing that you want this to stay this private might ensure this.
Resources for mental health
Teen Lifeline: Offers crisis counseling and support.Call or text: 602-248-TEEN (8336)Website: teenlifeline.org
Arizona Statewide Crisis Line: Provides 24/7 support for various crises.
Phone: 1-844-534-HOPE (4673)
Text: Text "4HOPE" to 44673
Chat: Chat with a Crisis SpecialistSchool-Based Services: Many schools offer on-campus behavioral health services. Check with your school counselor for available resources.
More Resources
| Teen Health Resources Website: www.teenhealth.org |
| Arizona's Local Resource: www.azhealth.gov |
| National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 |
| Mariposa Community Health Center: (520) 281-1550 |
| Planned Parenthood : https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn |
| Love Your Mind:https://loveyourmindtoday.org/finding-support/resources-for-teens |