ADVOCATES FOR YOUTH

Transitions
Volume 14, No. 4, June 2002

This Transitions is also available in [PDF] format.

GLBTQ Youth's Health Care Bill of Rights

As a GLBTQ young person accessing health care—

• You have a right to receive treatment without discrimination on the basis of race/ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, disability, or sexual orientation.
• You have a right to receive respect and positive, caring treatment.
• You have a right to ask questions. You have a right to ask for clarification and to receive explanations of tests, treatments, treatment options, and all aspects of your care.
• You have a right to receive confidential and affordable care. Your provider should assure you that the information you share is confidential and will not be disclosed to a parent or guardian unless you provide permission. If the provider will not guarantee your confidentiality, you have a right to find a provider who will.* You should not be denied care based on your ability to pay.
• You have a right to accurate, uncensored information.
• You have a right to demand youth-friendly services that are flexible and culturally appropriate.
• You have a right to nonjudgmental health care. Your provider should not make assumptions about your behavior.
• You have a right to disclose your sexual identity, gender identity, and sexual activities. This information may help providers understand what types of tests, referral, and health information you need.
• You have a right to say "no" to care and to learn about the effect this may have on your health.
• You have a right to change providers at any time and for any reason. You also have a right to a second opinion.

* In most states, providers must share information regarding physical and sexual abuse of minors with police and/or child welfare officials. If this is a concern, ask your provider about the law before sharing your concerns.

Transitions (ISSN 1097-1254) © 2002, is a quarterly publication of Advocates for Youth—Helping young people make safe and responsible decisions about sex. For permission to reprint, contact Transitions' editor at 202.419.3420.

Editor: Sue Alford

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