An Alleged Father's Family Medical History: An Introduction to the Nonidentifying Paternal Information Form

Abstract

Today, the number of single mothers, unwed fathers, and unwed mothers is higher than it was twenty years ago. No longer does the common law presumption of legitimacy apply to a large percentage of U.S. families. Studies have shown that, over time, an unmarried father's involvement with his child decreases. If a medical emergency occurs and the father is unable to be contacted or located, the father's health information should be available in his absence. Due to the growing public health concern for children born with genetic birth defects and mental illness, this Note proposes a pilot program to help children have access to necessary medical information in order to address the medical and health needs of children born into the evolving familial structure of unmarried families. The pilot program will require hospitals to ask unmarried fathers to complete a Nonidentifying Paternal Information Form. This form will not establish paternity. The sole purpose of the form is to gather the father's medical and health history for the well‐being of the child. Key Points for the Family Court Community Discusses the importance of children knowing their fathers' medical history in order begin potential mitigate inherited illnesses. Points out a potential resource—the Nonidentifying Paternal Information Form—to assist children, parent and medical personnel in gathering relevant medical information from alleged fathers. Presents information about genetically inherited illnesses that may potentially affect children. Discusses resources utilized in semi‐open adoptions to help children know their paternal medical history. Presents the idea that best opportunity to request medical and health information from an alleged father is immediately after the in‐hospital birth of a child.