Under what circumstance can a provider deny access to a minor's records?

A healthcare provider can deny access to a minor's records if it is determined that granting access would harm the minor's well-being. This principle is based on the understanding that certain information, if disclosed, could adversely affect the emotional or psychological health of the minor. For example, if the records contain sensitive information about mental health, abuse, or other personal matters, the provider has an ethical and sometimes legal responsibility to protect the minor's welfare by withholding that information from the minor or their guardians.

In cases where the minor requests their records, it is generally expected that they have the right to access their health information, unless there are specific reasons to withhold it. Similarly, parents or guardians typically have the right to access their child's medical information, albeit with some limitations based on the minor's age and maturity in certain situations. Being busy does not constitute a valid reason to deny access to medical records, as patient care and confidentiality are prioritized regardless of a provider's workload. Therefore, the focus is on the minor's best interests, which justifies the provider's decision to protect their well-being by denying access under certain conditions.