All minors, no matter how young, have the right to confidential reproductive health care services. This means your provider (a doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner) can’t tell your parents if you are having sex, if you want birth control, if you are being treated for an STD, if you are pregnant or if you want an abortion. Pregnant females can consent to prenatal care, delivery services and postnatal care without a parent. Providers are only allowed to say something if they think you’re a danger to yourself or someone else. If you have private insurance, however, your insurance company may send a bill to your parents detailing the treatment you received. If you are unsure, talk to your health care provider about your concerns. For a list of low-cost clinics in New Mexico, go to the Health Resources and Services Administrationor New Mexico Public Health Programs. More Resources New Mexico teen sex stats The CDC’s excellent teen pregnancy site Confidential services for minors APS school board An open letter to state’s Department of Health Dear NMDOH,This just in: it’s not 2006 anymore! Please update your teen pregnancy website.Love,Miss Dx
Teens, Know Your Health Care Rights
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