Agenda - 02-20-1979 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I! II. Program Activities A. Teen Services Teen Emphasis During FY 17e-179 the Orange County Health Department received addi� tional funding ($15,200) for program expansion. The department, being cognizant of the implications and extent of teenage childbearing in the county, elected to use these additional funds for the initial develop- ment of a teenage pregnancy prevention program. A total of 55 births occurred to women 17 and under in Orange County in 1877, as compared to 53 births in 1976. During 1977, Orange County, teens 17 and under had an estimated 194 abortions. The emphasis of the Teen Health Program has been two-fold, to pro- vide teens with educational experiences in which they can acquire the necessary knowledge needed for responsible decision making regarding sexuality, and to provide comprehensive clinical services to teenagers desiring birth control. Two half--time Health Educator I's were employed in October tq help meet the broad educational objectives of the program. Originally the department had hoped to provide clinical services for teens at a time and in a situation convenient and comfortable for them. A teen health clinic was initiated on a once--a-month basis, from 3:30 to 5:00 P.M., both in Chapel Hill and Hillsborough. Several articles appeared in local newspapers discussing teenage childbearing to create community awareness of the problem and publicize the clinics. A leaflet describing th clinic was developed and distributed among the public schools and various co unity agencies. A full range of clinical services were provided, in- cluding a family planning orientation educational session geared for new patients. After being in operation for approximately 31 months, evaluation of clinical operations revealed that teens preferred to attend the regular family planning clinics, held at earlier hours. In light of this evalua- tion, the department decided to combine the regular family planning clinic with teen clinic. To more adequately meet the needs of area teens, clinic day for family planning is being changed to create a "family planning only" clinic day, Clinic hours are being expanded to meet both the needs of teens and the needs of working, persons. Patient education classes are being Offered twice a day during clinic ho€L~s for new patients and other interested persons by the health educators. The community education component of the Teen Program has become more focused and directed with the aid of the two half-time health educators. Initial efforts included meeting with existing youth groups and assessing their needs and interests in regards to sexuality and family life education. Recreation department teen groups, youth councils, and neighborhood groups have already proved receptive to educational efforts. A standing committee comprised of various community members has been formed to help in the establishment of a teen health council(s). Members of this committee include a public health nurse, health educators, a social worker, a school psychologist and a UNC faculty member.