Laws vary from state to state, but many states have laws (statutes) enacted by their state legislatures that determine which persons have the legal authority to consent to medical treatments, medical procedures, and vaccinations (also known as immunizations or inoculations) of minor children (generally under the age of 18).
In Alaska, the law allows certain minors to consent to medical treatments, procedures, and vaccinations without the need for parental consent. Generally, minors under the age of 18 require parental consent for medical interventions. However, Alaska Statute 25.20.025 permits minors who are living apart from their parents and are managing their own financial affairs to consent to medical or dental treatment. Additionally, under Alaska Statute 47.10.020(g), minors aged 14 and older can consent to mental health treatment without parental consent. Furthermore, Alaska has specific statutes regarding consent for sexual health services: minors can consent to the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (AS 47.10.020(f)) and to services related to birth control (AS 25.20.025). It's important to note that while these statutes provide for minor consent in certain situations, other medical treatments and procedures typically require parental or guardian consent unless an exception applies, such as a medical emergency.