[Health professionals may have a dilemma about confidentiality healthcare of adolescents]

Abstract

Confidentiality is paramount in healthcare, yet according to Danish guidelines, health professionals have to inform parents about their child´s situation until the age of 18 years. This is in contrast to Danish legislation regarding informed consent, where adolescents aged 15 years can consent to treatment. Young people value confidentiality, although they are unaware of the current guidelines. International guidelines on youth-friendly health services recommend split visits and confidential care while at the same time acknowledging parents' caretaking role, especially in adolescents with chronic illness.