A Reading Program for Adolescents in a Primary Care Clinic

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Adolescent Medicine
• Mental Health Services

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the adolescent mental health crisis, partly due to disrupted connections with schools, communities, and healthcare.
• Reading is recognized for its potential to support mental well-being by fostering empathy and narrative identification.
• Adolescent primary care settings present an opportunity to integrate supportive services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Turning Pages program, which offers books to adolescents during primary care visits.
• To enhance the clinical experience and strengthen patient-provider relationships within an adolescent-focused primary care setting.
• To assess patient and clinician perceptions of a book distribution program aimed at improving adolescent engagement.

Main Methods:

• The Turning Pages program was implemented in a primary care clinic serving diverse adolescent and young adult patients.
• Books were curated based on patient and clinician recommendations, focusing on diverse and inclusive content.
• Patients received a book at their annual physical, with an optional survey to gauge program impact.

Main Results:

• 295 books were distributed to adolescent patients between May 2023 and January 2024.
• Of 65 survey respondents, 98% appreciated receiving a book, 81% felt it improved their clinic experience, and 68% reported increased connection to their medical team.
• Positive feedback and institutional support have secured ongoing funding for the program.

Conclusions:

• The Turning Pages program effectively enhances the adolescent primary care experience.
• Distributing books in clinics can strengthen patient-provider connections and positively impact adolescent well-being.
• The program shows potential as a sustainable model for improving engagement in adolescent healthcare.