Knowing the laws that govern what advice can be given and what information can remain confidential is imperative. A great resource in understanding the basic laws that protect the physician and the patient’s rights is guttmacher.org/statecenter/spibs/spib_OMCL.pdf. Most states provide an online version of their laws governing teens and medical practice.
Establishing a rapport with your teenage patients can be very rewarding. Many teenagers are in search of a listening ear and need guidance in this new and critical era of their life. With a little planning and practice, you will provide with ease the information to help them make good decisions. It is important that we are equipped and ready because you may just save a life!
Dr. Pearce is a pediatrician in Frankfort, Ill. E-mail her at pdnews@frontlinemedcom.com. Go to pediatricnews.com to view similar columns.