Navigating Child Medical Decision-Making in Massachusetts: A Guide for Parents For parents navigating separation or divorce, particularly in Massachusetts, few issues can ignite more intense disputes than decisions concerning a child's health. When parents no longer share a household, or even when they do but disagree fundamentally on medical choices, the question of who decides, and how, becomes paramount. This article aims to demystify child medical decision-making under Massachusetts family law, offering practical guidance, outlining potential pitfalls, and explaining the legal avenues available. The Legal Landscape: Understanding Custody and Medical Decisions in Massachusetts In Massachusetts, decisions about a child's medical care are directly tied to the concept of legal custody. Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions about a child's upbringing, including education, religious training, and, crucially, healthca...