Transition Age Health Care

Between ages 18 and 21, patients should transition from a pediatric model of care to an adult-centered model. Preparation for this transition should start much earlier, around age 12.

You play a crucial role in helping patients and their families with this transition. Although their legal status changes overnight, teenagers don’t wake up on their 18th birthday with an “adult” set of skills and knowledge. And parents who are used to having a say in their child’s health care may have a hard time ceding control.

PrimeWest Health strongly encourage you to discuss these upcoming changes with your patients throughout the transition period and to work with them to develop and refine a transition plan. Talk to patients and families about the following:

  • The legal changes that happen at age 18 and how they affect medical care
  • The change in who can access the patient’s health information. Ask who should have access and help obtain the necessary consent forms.
  • The best time to transfer providers (if needed)
  • The importance of continued health care and self-advocacy

The transition from pediatric to adult care is crucial as it sets the stage for the patient’s future participation in his/her health care. Work with your patients and their families to help them understand—and thrive in—their new roles.

For additional information on transitioning from pediatric to adult care, please see the following:

If you have questions or would like more information, please call the Provider Contact Center at 1-866-431-0802 (toll free).
 

Source: Got Transition, “Transition Planning/Integration into Adult Approach to Care,” accessed October 6, 2024.

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Updated_10/14/2024