What are the doctor-patient confidentiality laws in Australia (age wise)?

Question

I was just wondering what the doctor-patient confidentiality laws war in relation to age in Australia, and to how it applies.

My friend is going to be 16 soon and she will be getting a pap-smear, but she does not wish for her parents to know (I don't want to explain why). So any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks In Advance!

Answer 1

16 and above the doctors dont have to say anything unless you want to - l think its younger too but im only certain about this

Answer 2

Any communication between the doctor and the patient or records of treatment/medication are confidential in nature and cannot be intruded to by other persons under the law unless there is a court order. Thus, parents could be prohibited from knowing her medical records.

Answer 3

Confidentiality applies no matter how young u r. Doctors risk lawsuits if they divulge information about a patient no matter how young or old they are.