The global standards for quality health-care services for adolescents (32) provide an approach to implementing health-care services for adolescents. This publication includes nine standards covering the following areas: adolescent-centred care and empowerment; developmentally responsive care; inclusive, confidential, respectful and safe care; family and community engagement; competent human resources; comprehensive health benefit package of care; data-informed and youth-engaged practice; a welcoming physical environment; and accessible service delivery platforms. The following implementation considerations should be considered:

• a package of services that is both acceptable and feasible and differentiated according to the needs and experiences of subpopulations;
• linkage and referral pathways to ensure a comprehensive continuum of care, especially for the transition from paediatric or adolescent services to adult HIV services;
• interventions can be delivered through a range of delivery modalities, including clinic visits, home visits, support groups (including peer support and groups that link psychosocial support with ART delivery such as teen clubs), social media and telephone contact;
• the location of the intervention also influenced feasibility, with interventions delivered digitally or at home considered more feasible because of convenience and flexibility;
• comprehensive training of existing or new personnel and integrating interventions into existing health-care settings;
• peer support is especially important for managing the health of adolescents and young adults living with HIV and interventions that focus on strengthening support from trusted family members and health-care workers are also desired;
• differences in exposure to risks and protective factors depending on age, developmental stage, sex, health status, whether they belong to a key population and context;
• maintaining the highest ethical standards, including voluntary participation, confidentiality, privacy and the best interests of each adolescent and young person, with failure to participate not affecting access to ART or other services;
• community support and the involvement of parents, guardians and other community members in programmes may provide important support for programmes and promote their success.