GAPS guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services, providing a framework for comprehensive adolescent healthcare delivery.
Full Definition
The Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services (GAPS) is a comprehensive framework developed by the American Medical Association and endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It provides systematic recommendations for annual health guidance, screening, and immunizations for adolescents aged 11-21 years. GAPS emphasizes the importance of confidential care, risk assessment, and preventive interventions during the critical adolescent developmental period. The guidelines include specific protocols for substance abuse screening, sexual health counseling, and mental health assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as GAPS, not Gaps or gaps.
In Context
- "The clinic implemented GAPS guidelines to ensure comprehensive adolescent care protocols." — healthcare policy document
- "Following GAPS guidelines, the provider scheduled annual confidential interviews with all teenage patients." — clinical practice manual