What does confidentially mean for you?
At Hatch pediatrics, we understand that teenage years can be stressful and confusing. As you develop independence, your desire to seek accurate information from other places outside your family may be very strong. As you become older, we will provide private sessions with your doctor to allow you to discuss sensitive topics with a well-informed adult. Confidentiality during healthcare appointments means that discussions you have with your doctor will not be shared with anyone else including your parents. We encourage strong communication between you and your parents and are here to help you approach sensitive topics with them. Even if you feel the topic will be difficult for your parents, they know your strengths and are, typically, the best people to help you through difficult times. The final decision on what will be shared with your parents is yours unless you are in danger or have suicidal or homicidal thoughts or are in an abusive relationship.