Medical Exam: Youth 12+ Years

As Children Grow Up, They Learn to Take Care of Their Health

When children get older, they need to learn how to take care of themselves. This means learning about their health and being part of their medical visits.

Private One-on-One Time with their Provider

Starting at age 12, a child’s primary care provider will talk with them alone during part of the visit. The provider will only share what is discussed if the child says it’s okay or if someone’s safety is at risk.

California Minor Consent Laws

In California, children age 12 and older can make some health decisions without a parent. These include:

• Testing and treatment for STDs
• Help with drug or alcohol use
• Pregnancy care options
• Mental health care

Some health services still need a parent’s okay, like:

• Check-ups and vaccines
• Treatment for colds, viruses or flu
• Help with injuries

Helping Children Be Good Patients

As children grow, let them take more responsibility. They can start talking to their primary care provider, making appointments, and asking for medicine refills.

It’s also important to give children privacy during medical visits.