Legislative Alert | February 25, 2024

OPPOSE HB2183: Protect Adolescents' Access to Confidential Health Services

Brenda,

This Tuesday, February 27 at 2pm, Arizona legislators will hear House Bill 2183 (HB 2183) at the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. This bill seeks to eviscerate teen's right to confidential healthcare visits. It is something we oppose as we know adolescents (59% when surveyed) would stop seeking sexual health care services, but would not stop sexual activity.

By speaking up today about this bill, you can support public health, safety, and bodily autonomy for Arizona's youth.

1. Submit your comments in the Request to Speak (RTS) system - see below for more language you can use. For an RTS refresher click here.
2. If your Senator is listed here, they are part of the committee hearing the bill. Click their name to email them about your opposition to this bill - Sonny Borrelli (LD30), Eva Burch (LD9), Sally Ann Gonzales (LD20), Theresa Hatathlie (LD6), Janae Shamp (LD29), Thomas "T.J." Shope (LD16), and Justine Wadsack (LD17)
3. Share this information with your networks!

• This bill is trying to use state law to say: 'health care provider, for as long as the minor is under the age of 18, you must give parents/guardians access to their records through a patient portal or whatever technology used to support electronic access to patient records.'
• The bill is trying to fix a technology problem through legislation without taking into account that a law is a not technology solution, nor understanding why there is not a technical solution to this complex issue.
• Confidentiality Concerns: Allowing minors to consent to sexual & reproductive health services (including STI testing and treatment) can help ensure confidentiality, which may encourage them to seek necessary medical care without fear of parent/guardian notification.
• Public Health Impact: Permitting minors to access sexual & reproductive health services (including STI testing and treatment) independently can contribute to public health efforts by preventing the spread of infections; promoting timely treatment and early access to health care.
• Safety Concerns: Some minors may face abuse or neglect at home, making it unsafe to involve their parents/guardians in their healthcare decisions. Allowing them to access sexual health & STI care confidentially can protect them from harm.
• Healthcare Outcomes: Studies have shown that minors who are able to access STI care confidentially are more likely to adhere to treatment regimens and have better health outcomes.
• Stigma and Discrimination: Allowing minors to access STI care confidentially can help to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with these infections.
• Privacy and Autonomy: Acknowledging minors' ability to consent to certain healthcare services recognizes their autonomy and privacy rights in managing their sexual and reproductive health.

Thank you for helping us create a future where everyone has the trust, support, and information they need to choose what's best for them.

Sincerely,

AFFIRM | www.affirmaz.org

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@affirmaz