Co-parenting in a shared custody arrangement
We understand that the necessity for a Shared Custody Agreement may mean communication between parents is difficult at times.
CMO GUIDELINES:
1. The care of your child and/or children is our first and foremost mission.
2. Co-parenting requires communication. We expect that what we communicate to one parent will be shared between parents.
3. Either or both parents may bring a child to a visit in our office for a medically necessary visit.
4. The parent at the child’s visit is assumed to have the right to give consent to treatment. We do not obtain consent from a parent that is not present.
5. The MyChart portal should be used for additional questions. We do not make parent-only appointments to repeat treatment advice. (see #2)
6. Custodial parents are entitled to the medical records of their children in Massachusetts. Either parent may request a copy of a visit note at any time. We recommend you both have a proxy account in MyChart.
7. Our providers and staff will not mediate between parents. This means a parent’s legal rights to co-parenting should be addressed with a legal representative, not our office.
8. We assume that the vast majority of children will have a shared custody agreement when parents are separated or divorced. Situations where there is termination of parental rights, or a Restraining Order, are not covered under this policy.
9. We do not take sides. Please don’t ask us to. Unless it involves your children’s health and safety, we do not need details of your marital and financial disagreements.
We hope and expect that parents will use all available resources to mediate to a “happy divorce.” Your children deserve and need an effective model for solving life’s most difficult challenges!