Teens' Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to Accessing School-based Clinics

Abstract

Objective: This qualitative study explores teens' perspectives on facilitators and barriers to accessing school-based clinics, emphasizing the importance of youth self-report. Methods: We conducted in-person interviews with teens (N = 25) at 2 high schools that had school-based clinics in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada). We supplemented the interviews with a brief questionnaire administered to a sample of teens at both schools (N = 105). Data were iteratively coded and analyzed using NVivo. Results: Teens framed 5 clinic attributes that facilitated access: confidential, welcoming, judgment-free, validating and understanding, and fast/easy/convenient. Teens identified judgment from peers, fear and anxiety, hours/wait times, lack of privacy, and teens who gather at the clinic to socialize as factors that made the clinic hard to access or inhibited access entirely. Conclusions: School-based clinics were highly regarded by teens who used them. The most important factors underlying ease of use were assurance of confidentiality and a positive client-provider relationship that made teens feel safe and comfortable. However, considerable individual and structural barriers remain to ensuring the clinics are teen-friendly and accessible.