GAPS
Also written as: GAPS — Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services
Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services providing comprehensive care recommendations.
Full Definition
Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services (GAPS) is a comprehensive framework developed by the American Medical Association for delivering preventive health services to adolescents aged 11-21 years. GAPS provides evidence-based recommendations for health screening, immunizations, health guidance, and risk assessment. The guidelines emphasize confidential care, annual preventive visits, and screening for high-risk behaviors including substance use, sexual activity, and mental health concerns. GAPS serves as a standard reference for adolescent preventive care protocols.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize as proper noun when referring to the AMA guidelines.
In Context
- "The clinic implemented GAPS recommendations for comprehensive adolescent care." — Quality improvement documentation
- "Annual preventive visits followed GAPS protocols for age-appropriate screening." — Clinical practice guideline