It’s a subject that the majority parents would hopefully never have to provide a lot of thought to. Most people would never want to experience the worry that accompanies seeing their child through a hospital process. Recent, highly public cases regarding minors with brain injury specifically, have brought ideas concerning our rights into the general public consciousness.
Toby recently had major surgery to remove/repair a disease in his ear. If we ignored it, the disease could spread to a membrane that separates the ear from the brain – the consequences of that don’t bear thinking about. We put our son in the hands of the surgeons, who rebuilt his ear during a 5 hour surgery. Thank goodness the operation was a success, but as a parent, those 5 hours of waiting make you feel so helpless. As a parent it’s YOUR job to look after your children, but when things get serious we’re expected to step back and let others step in. And this is something that doesn’t come naturally.
What are Your Rights?
So what are your rights when your child is receiving medical care? It’s important not to forget that your child is a separate being to yourself and whereas we may be accountable for our children, our rights never precede their rights. What you can fairly expect as a parent changes counting on the age and medical condition of the child; however, there is some stuff you can invariably expect.
Among other things as a parent or guardian you’ll expect to:
- Be there whenever your child is being treated. Unless it’d place you or your baby in danger (for example, throughout surgery)
- Have the time to raise questions about your child’s care and be given clear answers
- Be given the name and ability to speak to somebody else to discuss any further questions you might have
What Can’t You Do?
You aren’t allowed to try to demand a definite treatment possibility from your child’s doctor. Your desires are going to be considered, however, ultimately; the doctor will provide you with the treatment choices they believe are out there for your child’s situation.
You can refuse a treatment possibility for your kid. However remember, if the doctor believes you’re being negligent in doing so, they will still perform the treatment if they believe it’ll save your child’s life. You could be charged with negligence too in some situations.
If you suspect a doctor has acted negligently within the care of your child though, you could be eligible for a claim. Brain injury solicitors, Your Legal Friend, have comprehensive FAQs concerning beginning a claim and as a parent; you are able to begin a claim on behalf of your kid.
