Meeting the challenge of adolescent health care in a group practice HMO

The Teen and Young Adult Health Center of Kaiser Permanente was designed to meet the challenge of adolescent health care by providing a constellation of services, including routine medical care, as well as services related to sexuality and reproduction, violent behavior, and emotional and mental health. We have made health care available, accessible, and acceptable for teens and young adults. We are evaluating the results of these efforts regarding health, morbidity, and mortality, and would urge other HMOs to explore offering these services to their adolescent and young adult members.