Mature minor consent — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

Correct answer: D — Assess maturity and decision-specific capacity rather than relying only on age

Assess maturity and decision-specific capacity rather than relying only on age is best because Canadian law recognises mature minor doctrine in many contexts. Breach confidentiality broadly without legal basis is suboptimal because disclosure must be limited to what is legally authorised or clinically necessary; Let family preference override a capable patient is suboptimal because capable patients direct their own care; Refuse to discuss the issue and document nothing is suboptimal because professional practice requires communication and clear documentation; Delay a mandatory report until certainty is absolute is suboptimal because statutory reporting thresholds are often suspicion or reasonable belief, not proof. Capacity is decision-specific and context-dependent.

Reference: CMPA consent guidance; provincial law