Video: Teens & Preventative Health Care

When we think of teenage milestones, we tend to think of events like prom, getting your first driver’s license, or graduation. But there are other milestones that may be more mundane, but a lot more important. Take, for example, your annual doctor’s checkup. We all know how important preventative health care is, and I think it can be especially relevant for young people still going through puberty so that they can be monitored for healthy development, get important information about what to expect as they grow up (Hello, deodorant!) and have the opportunity to be counseled on and ask questions regarding important issues like depression or eating disorders that they may be struggling with or witnessing at school.

However, a new survey from the US Census indicates that one third of teenagers who they spoke to may not be receiving annual checkups or missing out on important information while at their appointments. For example, many teens responding indicated that they didn’t feel comfortable discussing specific topics with their doctor because their parents were present. I remember when I was a teenager, I would have appointments where the doctor would usher my mom out of the room and ask those embarrassing questions like, “Do you smoke?”. While this may be awkward for the teens and feel unnecessary, I’m really glad my doctor had that policy, as I know many teens may be struggling with issues that they feel uncomfortable discussing with a parent, for whatever reason. Good health care is another tool which we have to make sure today’s youth are educated and can make informed choices for themselves to avoid health issues and treat problems that they may already be dealing with.