Confidentiality issues in the adolescent population.

Strong evidence supports the notion that perceived lack of confidentiality on the part of the health care provider is a barrier to the effective use of health care services by adolescents. This article reviews the recent literature surrounding confidentiality issues in adolescent health care. Issues highlighted include confidentiality in school-based health centers, primary care services, and more specifically, in gynecologic and obstetric services. Finally, general principles surrounding the maintenance of confidentiality are reviewed.