As a result of a change in New York State policy, participating providers can now securely access data through HEALTHeLINK for minor patients 10 – 17 years of age. Access to the data requires a parent or legal guardian signing an affirmative HEALTHeLINK consent form on behalf of the minor patient. Consent forms can now be collected on minors 10 – 17 years of age and with that consent their doctors can get access to their clinical data through HEALTHeLINK.
The ability to access data for a minor 10 – 17 years of age is the result of changes to a New York State policy regarding access to patient data through a Qualified Entity (i.e. HEALTHeLINK). HEALTHeLINK has completed changes to its software to allow for a minor 10 – 17 years of ageto be consented, representing a change in the long standing inability to consent and subsequent access to minor patient data through HEALTHeLINK. Parents’ consent for children younger than 10 has and will continue to allow access for treating physicians.
*With this change, participating providers will have access to PHI of a minor patient (under the age of 18). It is possible that this record contains minor consented information regarding services that are protected under NY State Law and may not be re-disclosed to the minor’s parent or guardian without the minor’s written consent. Such services include but may not be limited to: reproductive health services, mental health or substance use treatment, HIV testing and STD treatment or services consented to by an Emancipated Minor.
For more information on access to minor patient data based on a parental consent, please contact HEALTHeLINK at 716-206-0993 ext. 105.