The Mount Sinai journal of medicine, New York
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This article reviews the legal standards and ethical dilemmas surrounding the provision of care to adolescent patients. Uncertainty and ambiguity in this area has contributed to the underserving of the adolescent population. Usually, the legal right to consent to treatment resides with the adolescent's parent or legal guardian; however, there are many cases in which adolescents may provide their own consent. ⋯ The issue of confidentiality poses legal and ethical challenges to the provider in five discussed areas. Providers should be aware of the laws specific to their state, while keeping foremost the best interest of their patients. Providers should also encourage parental involvement and communication concerning treatment, while respecting adolescents' right to confidentiality.