DFPS must designate at least one primary medical consenter and one backup medical consenter for each child. A second primary and second backup medical consenter may be designated. The primary or secondary medical consenter or backup may be a DFPS employee.

The goal of designating multiple consenters is to ensure a consenter can participate when the child receives treatment. This is particularly important when the child is receiving psychotropic medications. A medical consenter must be able to participate in the child’s medical appointments and make decisions regarding the child’s care and treatment, including providing informed consent for medications when necessary. See 11131 Participating in Each Medical Appointment.

Medical consenters and backups must be specifically named individuals.

The caseworker and supervisor must consult to determine the most appropriate medical consenter and backup. See guidance in the Medical Consent Resource GuidePDF Document.