Being Teen Friendly:
A how-to guide for being teen friendly as a healthcare provider.
Environment
- Posters and pamphlets posted on the walls with information that regards teens and parents
- Display age-appropriate materials
- Designate a separate waiting room for teens who are nervous
- Provide one-on-one counseling for those who are uncomfortable sharing
- Make contraceptives and condoms easily available for teens
Staff
- Be friendly when a new patient comes in
- Allow same-day appointments or walk-ins
- Respect their privacy and guide them to a separate room if they do not feel comfortable talking at the front desk
- Offer for any parents to stay in the waiting room while their child speaks to you privately
- Discuss the privacy policies of the patient (HIPAA)
- Respect their choices in decision making, guiding them to the direction of protection and preventative measures
- Use inclusive terms when talking to them about their partners
After the visit
- Encourage them to come back for a check-up
- Contact the patient (using their preferred method of communication) about actions plans, counseling, and lab results
- Refer teen patients to a trusted provider
- Encourage the patient to share with their friends what they have learned from the visit
Why and how providers should get consent:
- Greet your patients when they are fully clothed; this shows that you care about consent
- Ask your patients if it is okay to be touched before you perform a physical exam
- Check in during the exam; ensure your patient that you are there for them if they have any questions or doubts. Always ask how the patient is doing and if they are feeling any discomfort
- Stop if your patient says “no” or is uncomfortable; this shows that you are respecting their decision to further (or discontinue) the exam or conversation
- Consent applies to birth control too; if your patient does not agree to be put on birth control, do not force them into the decision
- Always get consent before performing an exam under anesthesia; explain why the process will be occurring and how the process will be followed through



Tulsa Title X Clinics:
Confidential + Free Care for Tulsa Youth