If they are to meet the needs of today's youth, doctors need contemporary training in adolescent health issues and effective communication strategies. The Youth Friendly Doctor program was launched in April 2000. It was developed by the Foundation in consultation with doctors and other health professionals and increases the skills of GPs in several youth health issues:

• Connecting with Young People
• Young People, Ethics and the Law
• Alcohol and Other Drugs
• Sexual Health
• Mental Health
• Overweight and Obesity

Youth Friendly Doctors are able to communicate more effectively with young people and break down many of the barriers young people face in health care.

Youth Services Directory: AMA Foundation has developed a Youth Services Directory to assist WA’s Youth Friendly Doctors who have been trained by the association to understand the range of issues facing adolescents. The directory will enable these doctors to quickly find out where youth services are located throughout Western Australia and will be useful for youth services providers and young people. Please note some services may require referral. For more information please contact foundation@amawa.com.au