Confidentiality in Primary Care Pediatrics

Abstract

Confidentiality is a core component of adolescent health. Confidentiality is shown to be a basic human right that is in the best interest of the adolescent, addresses health inequities, and supports adolescents' developing capacity. Practical aspects of confidentiality are discussed, resources provided to navigate a changing legal landscape, and threats to confidentiality addressed. Although confidentiality can be a source of conflict with parents and caregivers, pediatric providers can use confidentiality to assist parents and caregivers in shifting from making decisions for the adolescent to supporting the adolescent in making their own health decisions, thus facilitating a healthy transition to adulthood.

Keywords: Adolescent; Bioethics; Confidentiality; Parent.