Reflection: Why trust matters in youth-friendly healthcare

Many young people need sexual and reproductive health services. Although progress has been made, getting the right care is not always easy. Some young people continue to face barriers when seeking support. 

This podcast shared various experiences from young people. The stories highlight some of the challenges young people face when seeking healthcare. They also show what can happen when young people are unable to access the support they need. Healthcare is about more than clinics and medicines. The episode shows how other factors can shape a young person's experience of seeking care. 

Why trust matters 

What stood out most for me was the importance of trust. The conversation highlighted that many young people face barriers beyond their health concerns. Fear, assumptions and past experiences can shape how they think about healthcare. As a result, some may avoid seeking help even when they need it. 

One part of the discussion stood out to me. It was a reminder that fear can prevent young people from seeking healthcare. Many worry about being judged and misunderstood. Others worry about being treated poorly when accessing sexual and reproductive health services.  

This is something that I have heard repeatedly in different spaces where young people share their experiences. It reminded me that even when services are available, they are not truly accessible if young people do not feel safe enough to use them.  

The healthcare provider also spoke about the importance of creating welcoming and non-judgmental environments. Hearing a healthcare provider speak about professionalism, confidentiality and equal treatment was encouraging. It highlighted the important role that healthcare workers play. Their role greatly shapes how young people experience care.  

A single positive interaction can encourage a young person to seek care again in the future. At the same time, a negative encounter can discourage them. The impact can last much longer. Some young people may avoid healthcare services for years after a negative experience. 

 For many young people, knowing they will be listened to without judgment can make a big difference. It may encourage them to seek help instead of struggling in silence. This highlights the enormous responsibility that service providers carry.  

Access to information is not always enough 

Another important takeaway for me was the discussion about gaps in knowledge. Many young people have questions about their bodies, relationships and health. However, they do not always have access to reliable information. Technology is becoming a bigger part of everyday life. It is influencing how people find information and access services. Young people are among the most connected groups in society. Many of their first interactions with health information happen online.  

It is easy to assume that young people have all the answers. However, this conversation reminded me that not all information is accurate. Having access to information does not always mean having access to the right information. Digital health systems can improve how healthcare services are delivered. However, many young people first turn to friends, social media or the internet when they have questions about their health. This shows the importance of making reliable information easy to access. This can sometimes lead to misinformation and delayed care. The discussion showed why comprehensive sexuality education matters. It also highlighted why young people need to have access to reliable information. Information that is reliable and trustworthy. 

The people who make healthcare feel safe 

The role of peer educators was another aspect that I found inspiring. Young people often feel more comfortable talking to someone who understands their experiences. Peer educators can help them access information and healthcare services. They can also make these services feel less intimidating. This shows the important role young people can play in supporting their peers. 

Confidentiality is another key issue that struck my attention. Trust is built when young people know that their personal information will be kept private. In many communities, young people have concerns about privacy when seeking healthcare. They may worry that others will find out about their visit. This can stop them from accessing sexual and reproductive health services. When young people know their conversations will be kept private, they may feel safer seeking help. 

The discussion about parents and communication within families was equally important. The discussion also highlighted the important role that parents and caregivers play. Young people need open and supportive relationships where they feel comfortable asking questions. Too often, conversations about sexual and reproductive health are avoided. This is usually because they are seen as uncomfortable and inappropriate. Yet silence does not protect young people. Honest conversations that are suitable for their age can help young people. They can help build confidence and learn more about their health. This can help them make informed choices. 

Young people should help shape healthcare 

Youth-friendly healthcare is about more than providing a service. It means treating young people with dignity, respect and understanding. Creating this kind of environment is not the role of one person. We need healthcare providers, parents, peer educators and communities to work together. Young people should feel seen, heard and supported when seeking care.  

I work closely with young people. And I advocate for their rights. Hence, This conversation reinforced something I have long believed. I believe that young people should not only be brought in to receive services. But they should be included in the designing and delivery of health services. Their experiences and perspectives can help ensure that services meet their needs. Young people know the barriers they face. They understand what works and what does not. When their voices are included, services become more responsive, relevant, and effective.  

Therefore, there is a need to create youth friendly healthcare systems. When we focus on systems it becomes more than just improving access to services. It becomes more about how young people are treated when accessing healthcare. Every young person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Whether they need support, information or care, they should feel welcomed and valued.  

You can watch the full podcast here: https://youtu.be/ijtJQGNZcas?si=b2NMtV0gr2WBZhq6

Safe Love, Safe Lives

This article is part of the Safe Love, Safe Lives series, a collection of podcasts and reflections exploring the real-life experiences, conversations and relationships that shape HIV prevention and sexual health. The series highlights the voices of young people, community members and frontline advocates who are helping to create more open, informed and supportive communities.

About the writer

Doris Kathia is a human rights defender and communications expert. She is the Executive Director of Raise Your Voice Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Kenya and works to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights through advocacy, community engagement and youth-led initiatives.