Informed Consent

Ontario

Ontario’s Health Care Consent Act does not specify the age a minor may give legal independent consent for health care. The age may vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the decision to be made. Generally, however, a minor who is mentally competent and at least 16 years of age can legally give consent for health care treatments.

Elements of consent (Health Care Consent Act)

11 (1) The following are the elements required for consent to treatment:

  1. The consent must relate to the treatment.
  2. The consent must be informed.
  3. The consent must be given voluntarily.
  4. The consent must not be obtained through misrepresentation or fraud.1996, c.2, Sched. A, s. 11 (1).

References:

  1. Consent to treatment – Health Care Consent Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 2, Sched. A
  2. Consent & Privacy (JFCY)
  3. Informed Consent and Capacity Assessment
  4. Consent to Treatment (CPSO)
  5. No parental consent needed to give kids 12 and up COVID-19 vaccine
 
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