10/23/2025
đ©ș Understanding Access to Your Childâs Medical Records
We understand that parents and guardians want to stay informed about their childâs care. However, Georgia law and federal regulations require us to follow specific rules when it comes to releasing medical information about minors.
Here are a few common questions to help explain what this means for families:
Q: Can I access my childâs medical records?
A: In most cases, yes. Parents or legal guardians can request their childâs medical records when they have the legal right to consent to that childâs medical care.
Q: Are there times when my child must give consent before I can see their records?
A: Yes. Georgia law allows minors to consent to certain types of medical care on their own â such as treatment related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), pregnancy, or childbirth. When a minor gives their own consent for treatment, those records are considered private under state and federal law, and the childâs consent is required before those records can be released.
Q: What if we live in Alabama but receive care at Martin Army Community Hospital?
A: Because care is provided in Georgia, Georgia law applies â even if you live in another state. This means the same consent and privacy rules outlined under Georgia law are followed for all patients treated here.
Q: Why is this law in place?
A: These protections are meant to balance parental involvement with a young personâs right to confidential healthcare in specific, sensitive situations. It ensures that minors can seek necessary care safely and responsibly when permitted by law.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: The federal rule is found in the DoD Manual 6025.18, paragraph 3.2(b)(2)(a), and Georgia state law is outlined in O.C.G.A. § 31-9-2 and O.C.G.A. § 31-17-7.
If you have questions about your childâs medical records or how consent laws apply to your situation, our Patient Administration Division (PAD) team can help guide you through the process.
đ Contact: 762-408-0024
Martin Army Community Hospital
Protecting patient privacy. Supporting family care.