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1. Can I get the pill (or other types of birth control) on my own?

In North Carolina, you have the right to family planning services, including birth control and emergency contraception, without permission from your parents. The clinic is open each weekday 8 AM -5 PM at the Richmond County Department of Health Services.  Call for an appointment 910-997-8301. 

2. What if I don’t live with my parents and I am in foster care?

You have the same rights as any other teen; however, any information in your foster agency file may be shared with your foster parents, those interested in adopting you, and the foster care agency staff.

3. Will my provider tell my parents if I’m gay, lesbian, or bisexual?

No, your provider will not share this information with your parents unless there are serious concerns about your safety, such as if you were feeling so sad that you were thinking of hurting yourself. Even then, your provider would tell your parents that you were depressed and need help but would not reveal your sexual orientation. Your provider may be able to help you decide if and how to tell others.

4. Can I get tested for an STI without my parents knowing?

North Carolina allows for teens to be tested and treated for STIs without your parents knowing. Talk with your provider about your concerns and how to receive this type of care.

5. Why do I need to tell my provider if I’m having sex?

Your provider needs to know that you are having sex or plan to have sex to help you make safe and healthy decisions that are best for you.

If you don’t have reliable information about condoms and other forms of birth control, you could get pregnant or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. Also, if you have any infection, it’s important for you and your partner to know so that treatment can occur.

6. Will my healthcare provider tell my parents what we talked about?

Your provider will keep the details of what you talk about private, or confidential. The only times when your provider cannot honor your privacy is when someone is hurting you or you are going to hurt yourself or someone else. There are state laws that require doctors to share information when there is a concern about someone possibly getting hurt.

If this happens, you and your provider will talk about how to share any information necessary to keep everybody safe.

At your next visit be sure to…

• Ask your provider about what things can be kept confidential.
• Tell your provider if some of the things you talk about can be shared with your parents.
• Ask your provider who has access to your medical records (paper and electronic) and if your records are secure.
• Discuss any privacy concerns if you communicate with your provider by e-mail or on the phone.

7. What can I talk about with my healthcare provider?

You can and should talk with your provider (or the nurse) about ANYTHING and EVERYTHING. Sometimes your provider will ask questions about school, your friends, and family members. Sometimes your provider will ask you personal things like how you’re feeling or what you like to do in your free time.

The more your provider knows about you, the better he or she is able to answer your questions or concerns.

8. I'm teen, can I come without a parent or guardian?

Youth 19 and under (that’s you!) can receive confidential sexual and reproductive health care.  The Richmond County Health Services offers clinic hours every Weekday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM at 127 Caroline Street Rockingham.  Walk-ins are welcome, but if you call us for an appointment, make sure to tell us your age so we know how to schedule you. 

9. I need buying food and paying bills. Who do I call?

The Richmond County Social Services has programs to help you. You may have to meet some requirements. Call 910-997-8404 for information about Food Stamps, Child and Adult Services as well as Work First, Medicaid and Daycare programs.  

Social Services

10. Can I get help with my medical condition?

Yes. The Richmond County Health Services provide a number of services. Most of the programs are for people who are unable to secure private medical attention. Call 910-997-8301 for more information.

Health & Human Services