After these programs had been successfully expanded to social networking sites such as MySpace and YouTube, health experts determined that greater privacy and confidentiality could be assured by delivery of this personal and sensitive information to teens via their cell phones. This would alleviate the angst, sense of shame and self-consciousness that might otherwise discourage teens from seeking accurate answers to troubling questions.

 

Pilot programs were established in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Toronto and San Francisco which allow teens to text a number, select from a FAQ menu, and receive automated replies along with addresses of free clinics. California recently added a statewide text-messaging service which allows teens to text in a zip code to receive a local clinic referral and weekly health tips.

 

A North Carolina program, initiated with a monetary grant from the State Department of Health and Human Services, established the “Birds and Bees Text Line.” This program offers one-on-one exchanges that are private, personal and anonymous. Modeled on a similar program in Alexandria, Virginia, the North Carolina program follows recommended guidelines of providing no medical advice but urging questioners to speak with a doctor; no advocacy of abortion; and when indicated, referring questioners to local clinics, web sites or emergency hot lines.