| Policy |
A DCF investigator shall investigate all reports of any child
who is suspected of not receiving necessary medical care because of the religious
beliefs of the parent(s). |
| Definition |
Necessary medical care is care required when the child
is in a life threatening condition
is suffering harm
is suffering pain
will suffer increased seriousness of a medical condition.
|
| Medical Consultation |
The investigation shall include consultation with medical
providers. Staff shall obtain sworn statements from two physicians which delineate
the child's medical condition
treatment needed
discussion/refusal by parent(s) to permit treatment
critical need for treatment
the results of failure to obtain treatment.
|
| Findings of Medical Neglect |
If medical neglect is substantiated, the investigator shall
work with the family to obtain permission for treatment if the child is not in a life
threatening condition
- file an Order of Temporary Custody immediately if the child is in a life threatening
condition.
|
| Procedures for Treating Jehovah's Witnesses |
The investigator shall investigate all requests for
intervention to obtain permission for blood transfusions for Jehovah's Witnesses. The
investigator shall ascertain that
- the parent(s) have denied such a request based on religious beliefs
- non-blood medical alternatives and treatment have been discussed between the parent(s)
and physicians
- contact has been made with the Hospital Liaison Committee of Jehovah's Witnesses
- necessary medical care cannot be managed without a blood transfusion.
|
