Teens need a doctor they can trust. Trust makes it easier to get the best care possible. And it may make it easier for them to ask about sensitive issues&mdash;like mental health, relationships and substance use. You can help your teen get a good doctor-patient relationship off the ground with these tips.
<img alt="" src="[BASEDOMAIN]/Client_Files/Default/HI/System/Health%20tips/TeensDoctor.jpg">
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<h2>Teens and doctors: 4 ways for parents to help build the trust</h2>

1. Keep up with checkups. Teens need wellness visits every year.

2. Give them time alone. Step out so they can talk one-on-one with the doc.

3. Respect your teen's privacy. What they tell the doctor is confidential.

4. Give them responsibility. Let your teen start to make some healthcare decisions.


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Reviewed 4/26/2024
Sources
<ul>
 <li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Teen Health Services and One-on-One Time with a Healthcare Provider." <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/factsheets/OneonOnetime_FactSheet.htm">https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/factsheets/OneonOnetime_FactSheet.htm</a>.</li>
 <li>FamilyDoctor.org. "Preparing Older Children to Make Decisions for Themselves." <a target="_blank" href="https://familydoctor.org/preparing-older-children-to-make-medical-decisions-for-themselves/">https://familydoctor.org/preparing-older-children-to-make-medical-decisions-for-themselves/</a>.</li>
 <li>HealthyChildren.org. "What You Need to Know About Privacy." <a target="_blank" href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Information-for-Teens-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Privacy.aspx">https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Information-for-Teens-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Privacy.aspx</a>.</li>
</ul>

Build your teen's trust in the doctor