Medical Council of Canada MCCQE Part 1 MCCQE Question # 5 Topic 1 Discussion
MCCQE Exam Topic 1 Question 5 Discussion:
Question #: 5
Topic #: 1
During an office visit, your 14-year-old patient requests a prescription for oral contraceptives. The province where you are working does not have a statutory age of consent. Which one of the following is the best next step?
A.
Notify child protective services because of the possibility of sexual abuse.
B.
Give her the prescription and book a follow-up appointment.
C.
Advise her to return with her parents so that legal consent can be obtained.
D.
Determine her understanding of the medical issues before prescribing the pills.
E.
Refuse to prescribe the pills because she is less than 18 years of age.
In Canada, a minor may consent to medical care if the physician believes they have the capacity to understand the nature, benefits, and risks. This is known as the “mature minor doctrine.” Capacity is based on understanding, not age.
Toronto Notes 2023 – ELOM, “Consent and Capacity” Section:
“A minor may consent to treatment if they demonstrate sufficient maturity and understanding. It is the physician’s responsibility to assess capacity prior to prescribing.”
MCCQE1 Objectives (ELOM > 99-3: Consent and Confidentiality):
“Candidates must assess the patient’s ability to understand and make informed decisions, regardless of age.”
Prescribing without assessment (B) is premature. Reporting to child services (A) is only necessary if there are signs of abuse or coercion. Parental involvement (C) is not mandatory. Refusal based on age (E) contradicts legal and ethical practice.
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