After Hours

Private Conversations between Adolescents and their Pediatrician:
 
As parents we are used to being in the know and the driving force for our children’s health care needs. We are their advocates. So the slight shift when they become teens can be disconcerting. As parents ourselves, we know this very well!
 
When it comes to your child- we (your child’s Pediatricians) share your goals - ensuring your child’s health and well being. To this end, as Pediatricians, we will hold some protected time to speak with your child one-on-one at every checkup beginning at the age of 12 or 13. Respecting and allowing space for that confidential conversation to happen is one of the most valuable things you can do to promote your teen’s health. We ask that, as challenging as it may be to make this shift, you support and respect this space.
 
Per California State law- the conversations between an adolescent and their doctor must remain confidential unless the patient’s or another’s safety is in jeopardy. If safety is on the line the physician must engage with parents and others to ensure safety.
 
Your child’s Pediatrician will open up the conversation with your child to include asking about their mental health, social interactions, drugs, relationships, gender identity and will allow space for your teen to ask questions. A doctor is a safe person and very different from a parent who is also emotionally engaged. We open up the same dialogue with all of our teens and we have an open and nonjudgmental conversation. We talk about safety and health and will be strong in warnings about possible outcomes of risk behaviors. 
 
Being your child’s doctor is a privilege. Thank you for your trust in us.