Through a policy change, providers participating in Western New York's clinical information exchange, HealtheLink, can access data on patients between the ages of 10 and 17, according to The Buffalo News.
Parents or legal guardians who wish to opt in simply have to sign a consent form for the minor patient. Currently, more than 870,000 adults have signed the form.
However, it is important to note that certain information in the minor patients' records — such as reproductive health services, mental health services and HIV testing — cannot be disclosed to parents without the minor's consent.
"This change in state policy gives parents and legal guardians the peace of mind that their child's treating pediatrician or specialist will have the most up-to-date health information," HealtheLink Executive Director Dan Porreca said in a statement. "For a child who may see several different physicians, having access to this information will allow for better, more efficient care decisions."