Introduction: In the Netherlands, medical decision-making without parental permission is allowed from the age of 16. The aim of this study was to examine parents' knowledge of this age-based framework to discover potential knowledge gaps that hinder the communication between doctors, parents, and their children.
Methods: Survey-based research was conducted to examine parents' knowledge of the age-based framework that applies to minors in Dutch healthcare. The survey was based on 5 topics: medical diagnosis and treatment, medical advice, reproductive and sexual health services, abortion, and euthanasia. The survey was sent to 1,010 Dutch parents, aged 35-55 years, with at least one child. The data were analysed using SPSS. Percentages and means were calculated.
Results: Parental knowledge of the age-based framework varied depending on the topic.
Conclusion: This study provides insights into parents' current level of knowledge of the age-based framework that applies to minors in Dutch healthcare. This information is useful in the conversation between health care professional, parents, and their children.