Confidentiailty
When
we say that your visits with us are confidential,
we mean that they’re private.
So what we talk about when you see us will not be told to your parents
or guardians without your permission. In general, your visits
are
confidential. Of course, there are a few details and
exceptions
you should be aware of, which are discussed below.
Confidential Services
In
California, if you are from 12
to 17 years old, you can see us privately for confidential
services. These include anything related to sexuality,
mental health, and substance use. For these
services, you are able to give consent
(permission) for any care related to these services. Some of
the
issues and concerns that fall under this category include:
- abortion
- birth control
- pregnancy
- STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
- HIV testing and treatment
- mental health issues
- alcohol and drugs
- rape
- sexual assault
General Medical Care
For
other health services and concerns, such as physicals, colds, and
injuries, you can still see us in private, and for the most part, what
we talk about will remain confidential. However, we might
need to
get permission from your parents or guardians to provide care.
Exceptions
There
are certain situations where we must talk about your visit with other
people who can best help you. We will contact these people if:
- you have experienced any physical or sexual abuse, including incest
- you are in danger of harming yourself or others
Copyright © 2007 The Teen & Young Adult Clinic. Original design by KP Trinh.