Why does access to My Duke Health change?
State law protects the right of minors to obtain confidential health care information regarding issues around mental health, reproductive health (sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy), and substance use. Teens can be seen and treated for these conditions without the consent of a supervising adult because there is evidence that without a layer of privacy, many children will not seek care for these high-risk health conditions or behaviors, which can negatively affect their health. Because of North Carolina law, the information we can display in My Duke Health for the parents or guardians of most children between the ages of 12 and 17 is very limited.
How can our family continue to communicate through My Duke Health?
Duke Health understands the importance of maintaining communication with our teens and their families. To accomplish this, and in accordance with state law, your teen can be given access to their own My Duke Health account where they will be able to receive appointment reminders, view upcoming appointments, and message their providers.
What if I don’t agree with limiting my access as a parent or guardian and want to continue to have full electronic access to my child's health information?
Because this policy is the result of state law, it is applied to all children with only rare exceptions based on medical exemptions.
Do I have to allow my child to have a teen account?
No, you can choose to communicate exclusively by phone with your child’s health care team. You will need to call our offices to receive access to test results, appointment information, make requests for refills, or get answers to medical questions. A parent or guardian has to give consent for the teen to have an account.
