Confidentiality Issues and Use of Sexually Transmitted Disease Services Among Sexually Experienced Persons Aged 15–25 Years — United States, 2013–2015

Weekly / March 10, 2017 / 66(9);237–241

Jami S. Leichliter, PhD1; Casey Copen, PhD2; Patricia J. Dittus, PhD1 (View author affiliations)

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Summary

What is already known about this topic?

Issues related to confidentiality have been associated with youths not seeking care for some sexual or reproductive health–related services.

What is added by this report?

Nationally, 12.7% of sexually experienced adolescents and young adults who were on a parent’s health insurance plan would not seek sexual and reproductive health care because of concerns that their parents might find out. This was highest among persons aged 15–17 years (22.6%). Overall, these persons reported lower prevalences of receiving certain recommended sexually transmitted disease (STD) services. However, receiving a sexual risk assessment (both males and females) and chlamydia test (females) was higher among persons aged 15–17 years who had time alone with a health care provider in the past 12 months compared with those who had not.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Confidentiality issues, including concerns that parents might find out, might be barriers to the use of STD services among some subpopulations. Public health efforts to reduce these confidentiality concerns might be useful. Some medical organizations suggest that providers have time alone with patients without a parent in the room.

Jami S. Leichliter, PhD1; Casey Copen, PhD2; Patricia J. Dittus, PhD1 (View author affiliations)

View suggested citation