Mandatory parental notification: the importance of confidential health care for adolescents.

Studies have shown that lack of confidentiality is a barrier to adolescents use of needed health care services. Professional medical organizations support confidential care for adolescents as a matter of individual and public health. Confidentiality is governed by both state and federal law, and physicians must be aware of both. Physicians must facilitate communication between teens and parents while guaranteeing confidential care to their adolescent patients.