The need for teen health centers

"The teen health center is a necessity.

I hope future students will have the teen health center here for them."

-- Franklin High School student

"The Teen Health Center is a great place and it impacts my life at school in a very healthy and positive way."

-- Roosevelt High School student

"I was about to not come to school today, but I went to the THC during 2nd period, and had a rest. Now, I feel ready to get through the day."

-- Nathan Hale High School student

The need for teen health centers

	Adolescents (ages 10-19) are the only population in the United States that has experienced a rise in mortality (death) and morbidity (illness) in recent years. Unfortunately, adolescents also utilize health care services less than any other age group and are least likely to seek medical care at a provider's office.
	The majority of behavior patterns that pose lifelong health risks begin in adolescence.
	School-based/linked clinics eliminate obstacles of transportation, scheduling, and economics. They enable teenagers to receive the physical and mental health services they need -- when they need them. The clinics' unique combination of medical care and counseling with strong health education reinforces healthy lifestyles and promotes the prevention and early intervention of serious problems.
	The "Seattle Public Schools 1999 Teen Health Survey" yielded the following data:
		Only 64% of middle school students and 66% of high school students reported that they had a health check up in the past year.
		24% of students said there was no one place they usually go for health care.
		23% of middle school students and 20% of high school students said they seriously considered suicide in the past year.
		22% of middle school students and 39% of high school students used alcohol in the month prior to the survey.
		11% of students attending a school with a school-based clinic said that the health center is their regular care provider.
	School-based/linked health centers help to keep our community's youth safe, healthy, and ready to learn.