While there has been a downward trend in the teen birth rate, Washington County has historically had a significantly higher teen birth rate than the State of Maryland. In 2013, the teen birth rate in Washington County ranked 28.2 whereas the State of Maryland ranked 19.3. Lower educational levels and higher rates of poverty are the two most significant socioeconomic issues correlated with teen pregnancy. Other factors include absent parents, lack of knowledge, media influence, teenage drinking and substance abuse, as well as lack of contraception. The LMB remains concerned with this data and desires to continue collaborative efforts in providing clinical services to teens and comprehensive education.

Clinical Services & Community Outreach to Reduce Teen Pregnancy & Sexually Transmitted Infections.

All Washington County teens, female and male ages 13 to 19, are provided free confidential clinical services to prevent teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.