Allow me to correct a serious mistake in the otherwise excellent article “Sex and Lies” that appeared in the magazine A&H which was distributed with The Malta Independent on Sunday of 25 April. It was stated that those under 16 years of age need parental consent to attend the GU Clinic, while those over 18 are free to do so. This is a very common misconception that only helps to discourage a most vulnerable group from seeking help from the GU Clinic. The child’s right to seek medical advice and expect confidentiality are entrenched in Maltese Law, (Medical and Kindred Professions Ordinance, Chapter 31, sec 7(1) (a), and Children and Young Persons (Care Orders) Act 1980, Chap 285, Sec 4 (1), and Sec 5(b)). This position is endorsed by the Medical Council (personal communication 7/2/2000).

However, as the doctor in charge I have certain obligations in that I must always give the child the option to re-attend with a parent. If this is refused, (which it is in the majority of cases for obvious reasons), I must decide that the child is competent to make such a decision, and I must also weigh up the pros and cons of treating, (or not) the child. Such a decision needs to be documented. The article also leaves those between the ages of 16 and 18 in limbo, as no provision is made for them!

We must be very careful not to scare away very vulnerable patients because of

misinformation.

Dr Philip Carabot

Consultant

GU Clinic

Boffa Hospital