Who has the right to access financial records of a child’s dental treatment?

The ability to access financial records related to a child's dental treatment typically hinges on the legal responsibilities of payment and guardianship. In this scenario, the step-parent who pays for the treatment has the right to access these financial records. This is because they have a direct financial responsibility towards the child's healthcare, which includes dental treatment.

While biological parents have a strong claim to access information about their child's treatment, the step-parent, as someone financially invested in the child's dental care, is also entitled to obtain necessary records to ensure they are fulfilling their financial obligations and managing the child's health needs appropriately.

Legal guardians are often seen as the primary caretaker regarding access to records, but in cases where a step-parent is the one financially responsible, their role expands to include access to pertinent records.

Access by any relative of the child may not be appropriate as they do not possess the same legal or financial standing concerning the child’s care. Each relationship has its own legal implications, and without financial involvement or legal guardianship, relatives generally have no right to such sensitive information.