School-based adolescent health clinics.
School-based clinics are a relatively new concept in the United States. Presently, three clinics exist in Louisiana. The primary purpose of the school-based clinics is to provide comprehensive health care to an underserved adolescent population. Society, recognizing the complex health care needs of adolescents, has formed community-wide coalitions to support school-based clinics. To maximize visability and accessibility, the clinics have been placed in public schools. Qualified health care professionals are responsible for a clinic's operation and networking with existing community health care services. In communities with school-based clinics, private physicians have actually seen an increase in visits by adolescents and their families. High-risk adolescent behavior, such as alcohol and drug abuse, crime, smoking, unprotected sexuality, and running away has been curtailed. Problems associated with school-based clinics include vehement opposition to sex education, financing, and the sheer magnitude of the adolescents' health needs.
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D000295:Adolescent Medicine; D008145:Louisiana; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*