For parents and caregivers
Healthcare and rights
Healthcare rights of children and teenagers.
Children have the right to information and to be heard. Age, maturity and circumstances affect consent and what information parents receive.
Understanding the situation
From age 16, teenagers generally consent to their own healthcare and healthcare professionals have a duty of confidentiality towards their parents. Until age 18, however, parents may receive information needed to fulfil parental responsibilities.
For those under 16, the general rule is that parents receive information and provide consent. Between ages 12 and 16, information may be withheld if the young person has reasons that should be respected. Compelling considerations can justify withholding information regardless of age. Healthcare professionals must assess the individual situation.
Turning knowledge into action
What you can do
- Ask healthcare professionals to explain what your child can decide and what information can be shared.
- Give your child room to speak privately with healthcare professionals.
- Ask how you can continue supporting your child with the information you receive.
Find a way to start
One way to begin
“You should know what stays between you and the healthcare professional and what they may need to share. We can ask about that first.”
Use your own words and give your child time to respond. A short conversation can be a good beginning.
More help with the conversationFurther support
When should you seek help?
Ask for a concrete explanation if you are unsure about confidentiality or consent. Special assessments and rules may matter in situations involving pregnancy, abuse or feeling unsafe at home.
See who you can contactContinue learning
Other useful topics
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked on 1 October 2026. The conversation examples are suggestions from Tidlignok.
- Helsenorge: Helserettigheter for barn og unge (Norwegian)
- Helsedirektoratet: Informasjon når pasienten er under 18 år (Norwegian)
This content provides general information. Healthcare professionals can assess your child's symptoms, circumstances and treatment needs.