Virginia Gillick

Virginia Gillick is a British expert in healthcare law and ethics, known for her work on adolescents’ rights to access confidential medical advice, particularly regarding sexual and reproductive health. Her research emphasizes balancing teenagers’ privacy with their best interests, advocating that minors often have the capacity to make informed decisions about their health without unnecessary parental involvement. Gillick’s principles have influenced UK healthcare policies and legal standards, establishing that young people under 16 can consent to certain medical treatments when they demonstrate adequate understanding, fostering responsible healthcare access while respecting their maturity and autonomy.