Access to health and information for young carers
Young Carers have rights to access important health information. They have a right to be informed and actively participate in decision that affect their lives and the care of their loved ones
Accessing Medical Records: Young carers can have acess to their loved one's medical records if they have received the explicit consent of the person from whom they are caring, and the family member has the metal capacity to make this decision.
Involvement in Discharge Decisions: NHS hospital trusts have a duty to involved unpaid carers, regardless of age, in discussions about discharge plans as early as possible. the wole family approach ensures they are considered in the decision-making process, supporting a smooth transition for the patient from hosptial to home.
Proxy Access: If a young carer is aged 16 or over, they can use the Proxy Access service - a secure way to manage healthcare services for someone else. This includes the ability to:
- Book appointments
- Request and manage repeat prescriptions
- Communicate with Surgery Staff
- Access information like test results from medical records
Sources:
Discharge Decision (Section 74(2) of the Care Act 2014
Thank you to our friends at Our Child Friendly Manchester for their support in putting this information together.
