How To Get Your Teen To The Doctor

KYW Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- I can tell you without any reservations that some of the hardest patients to get into the office are teenagers.

As a family physician, I try to take advantage of school physicals, or even the occasional respiratory, or throat infection, to talk with teens about their overall health, and the unique risks they face every day. But one of the most important parts of the exam is making certain that teens feel they can talk to you and have their privacy respected.

According to a new report, in the journal of adolescent health, healthcare providers, insurance companies, and state and federal governments should work together to ensure the confidentiality of adolescents and young adults who access sensitive health services, according to a joint position paper endorsed by several professionals groups.

The concept is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.