Understanding Changes to Patient Portal Access for Teens

Patient portal access changes when a child turns 13. This is a common practice among healthcare organizations designed to protect the confidentiality of certain health information during the teenage years. The information below explains what families can expect, why this transition occurs and how parents can continue to be involved in their child’s care.

What to expect When Your Child Turns 13

Once your child turns 13, your access to their patient portal will be automatically removed. At that time, your child will have the option to complete a Patient Portal Proxy Authorization form to grant you access if they choose.

Why Does Access Change?

As children enter their teenage years, privacy laws require that they have more control over their health information. This allows teens to speak openly with their healthcare provider and receive appropriate care, including for certain sensitive health concerns.

Teens can legally consent to certain types of care. Some types of care are confidential by law. This helps teens feel comfortable speaking openly with their provider. This means some health information must remain confidential, even from parents or guardians.

Because patient portal systems cannot always separate sensitive and non-sensitive information, teens must decide whether they would like to allow parent/guardian proxy access to their portal.

Please note:

• Proxy access is optional and requires authorization from the patient.
• Proxy access will automatically expire every year.
• A new Patient Portal Proxy Authorization Form must be completed to continue proxy access after expiration.
• All proxy access will end when the patient turns 18.

Can I still be involved in my child’s care?

Absolutely. We strongly encourage open communication between parents and teens. Your child may choose to grant you proxy access to their portal, which allows you to stay involved in their care. This decision belongs to your child and can be updated at any time.

We Are Here to Help

We understand that this change can feel difficult or frustrating. Our goal is to support both our patients and their families while ensuring we provide consistent, accurate information and follow privacy requirements.

Questions?

Please reach out to our team. We are here to help walk you through your options.

Call us at (785) 842 – 4477 with any questions or concerns.