INVOLVE, CHANGE, INFORM, SUPPORT! AN EVALUATION OF THE ADOLESCENT HEALTH SERVICE AT ANGERED HOSPITAL

Abstract

Master thesis, Programme in Medicine. TITLE: INVOLVE, CHANGE, INFORM, SUPPORT! AN EVALUATION OF THE ADOLESCENT HEALTH SERVICE AT ANGERED HOSPITAL AUTHOR: Mikaela Hällström. The current study aimed to evaluate the work of and accessibility to the Adolescent Health Service at Angered Hospital with the ambition to identify factors that may facilitate the access to and visits at the service. Data was collected through focus groups with adolescents in the catchment area; in total, 11 girls and 12 boys participated, divided into two female and two male groups. The focus groups were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis, resulting in four main themes: Young peoples’ conceptions in relation to adolescent health services, Young peoples’ needs with regard to adolescent health services, Young peoples’ experiences of the Adolescent Health Service at Angered Hospital, and Factors that could facilitate the access to and visit at the Adolescent Health Service at Angered Hospital. By enhancing the competence, concern and respect amongst the staff, as well as considering improvements in terms of extended information, familiarisation and involvement of adolescents and parents, the service can provide accessible and acceptable health care for young people, thus contributing to the fulfilment of adolescents’ equal right to health and well-being.