Who is authorized to consent to treatment when a child is in custody of the Department of Corrections?
The Department of Corrections has exclusive authority to consent to medical treatment for children in the custody of the department. The commissioner of Corrections designates health staff to represent the state. As a matter of policy, the department tries to involve the child’s parents whenever possible to obtain their input and background information. When a minor in corrections custody receives medical care from a provider outside the prison, can the corrections officer accompanying the minor receive medical records of the visit? Yes, the health care professional may give the records to the corrections officer transporting the patient in a sealed envelope marked: “To the attention of the responsible Department of Corrections health authority.” Records may also be mailed to the “designated health authority” at the facility where the child is residing. When minors are in custody of the commissioner of Corrections who has access to their medical records or health care information? • Th
