At The Wilson Practice, we recognize that the transition from childhood to young adulthood is a significant time. As young people grow more independent, their healthcare needs and the way they interact with their GP surgery often change.
To support this journey, we are pleased to introduce our new “Guide to Accessing Services for Young People (Aged 13–16).”
Why have we created this guide?
When a patient reaches the age of 13, the way their medical information is handled begins to change. This guide is designed to help both young people and their parents or guardians understand how confidentiality, appointments, and digital access work during these important years.
What does the guide cover?
The guide provides clear information on several key areas, including:
- Confidentiality: Understanding that young people have a right to a private consultation and that their medical information is kept confidential (unless there is a legal requirement or safety concern).
- Booking Appointments: How young people can contact the surgery themselves and the options available for speaking with a clinician.
- Online Services: Information on how access to online records and repeat prescriptions transitions from the parent/guardian to the young person.
- Consent: How we assess a young person’s ability to make their own decisions about their health (often referred to as ‘Gillick Competence’).
Empowering Young People
Our goal is to ensure that every young person feels empowered, safe, and respected when seeking medical advice. We want our younger patients to know that they can talk to us about anything—from mental health and wellbeing to physical ailments or sexual health—in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Read the Guide
We encourage all our patients aged 13–16 and their families to take a few moments to read the guide so they know what to expect.
View the full guide here: Guide to Accessing Services for Young People (13-16 Years Old)
If you have any questions regarding these policies, please feel free to speak with a member of our reception team or discuss it with a clinician during your next visit.