In general, it is legal for doctors to ask patients about their age as part of their medical evaluation and treatment. In the context of medical practice, knowing a patient's age is relevant for a variety of reasons, including determining appropriate medical care, assessing risk factors, and understanding potential health conditions associated with specific age groups.
Healthcare providers often need to consider age-related factors in diagnosis, treatment options, and preventative care. For example, certain health screenings and vaccinations are recommended based on age, and age-related changes can influence how medications are prescribed.
Furthermore, age information is often essential for medical records and billing purposes, as healthcare systems need to accurately identify patients and categorize services provided.
It's worth noting that medical professionals are bound by patient confidentiality and privacy laws, which means they should use the information they gather, including age, solely for medical purposes and not disclose it to unauthorized individuals or entities.
However, please keep in mind that laws and regulations may vary from country to country, and there might be specific local laws or privacy regulations that apply in some regions. If you have concerns about your rights as a patient, you should consult legal resources specific to your jurisdiction or speak with a healthcare advocate or attorney.