"Janet is 12 years old. Dr. Greene has been caring for Janet and all the members of her family for many years. Janet made an appointment with Dr. Greene without the knowledge of her parents. She has been feeling sick, has profuse foul-smelling vaginal drainage, and now has a temp of 101 degrees. After Dr. Greene has obtained Janet's recent medical history and examined her carefully, She informs Janet that Janet has an advanced case of syphilis and needs to be hospitalized and receive IV antibiotics. Janet cries, begs the doctor to not inform her parents, promises to take the antibiotics orally and will pay the doctor whatever is necessary.
- What responsibilities does the physician have to Janet in this situation?
- Do Janet's parents have the right to know about her medical condition? Why or why not?
- What considerations should the doctor take into account in this situation?
- Does Janet's age cause any legal concerns?