DCF: 34-12-7

Policy Manual

CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATIONS
Special Investigations

34-12-7
Religious Beliefs of Parents Preventing Necessary Medical Care

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.

    Connecticut Department of Children and Families                                 

    Effective Date: October 1, 1996 (Revised)





    Content Last Modified on 9/5/2007 1:10:14 PM