What is the responsibility of a chiropractor when treating a minor?

The responsibility of a chiropractor when treating a minor is to obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian and ensure that the treatment is in the child’s best interest. This is crucial because minors are not legally able to give informed consent for medical treatment on their own. The law emphasizes the role of a parent or guardian in making healthcare decisions for their children to protect the child's welfare and ensure that treatments received are safe and appropriate.

Obtaining consent not only respects the legal requirements but also fosters a collaborative approach to healthcare, where parents are actively involved in their child's treatment plan. Additionally, ensuring that the treatment is in the child's best interest involves assessing the child’s specific health needs, understanding any potential risks or benefits of treatment, and making informed decisions based on the child's unique circumstances. This holistic approach is part of the ethical and professional responsibilities that chiropractors must adhere to when dealing with minors in a clinical setting.