Who is recognized as a personal representative for an unemancipated minor?

A personal representative for an unemancipated minor is typically defined as someone who has legal authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the minor. This role is primarily held by the child's parent or legal guardian, who is responsible for the child's welfare and best interests. The law grants parents or guardians the authority to consent to medical treatments, access medical records, and make other important health-related decisions for their minor children.

In contrast, while friends, grandparents, and older siblings may be involved in the child's life and can often provide support or assistance, they do not possess the legal authority that parents or guardians hold. This legal distinction is crucial because healthcare providers need to ensure that the individual making decisions for the minor child has the recognized authority to do so under the law. Therefore, the parent or guardian is the clear and correct choice for who is recognized as a personal representative for an unemancipated minor.