Health Tip: Prepare Teens to Make Medical Decisions

As your child ages, he or she should play a greater role in getting medical care, the American Academy of Family Physicians says.

The academy suggests how to empower your teen to make informed medical decisions:

At about age 14, kids should be able to: understand and explain any medical conditions they have, know which medicines they take and why, be aware of any allergies, and know whom to contact for medical equipment or supplies.
By age 18, your child should know: how to make doctor appointments. how to fill a prescription and pick it up from the pharmacy and how to look for a primary care doctor by asking for recommendations and checking insurance coverage.

Source: HealthDay