Transition includes the transfer of care from pediatrics to adult based care but is really much more than that. The transfer usually occurs between 17 and 18 years of age. Transition might appear to be an “event,” but it is really an ongoing process that starts right at the time of diagnosis, preparing you to be an independent adult patient. As a teenager, you will be expected to take on more and more responsibility of your care. You will be moving from being dependent on your parents and caregivers to independently managing your disease. By the time you have been transitioned to an adult gastroenterologist, it is our goal that you are able to independently and confidently manage your care.

 

 

Key areas you should be able to successfully manage

 

KNOW:

• Your Disease and where it is

• Your Medications including name, purpose, dosage and potential side effects and interactions

• Your tests and what the results mean for your own going care

 

DO:

• Take your medications

• Make your own appointments

• Report any symptoms to your health care team

• Get your blood work and other investigations done independently

 

 

 

 

Transition Process

1. Referral made to adult Gastroenterologist by pediatrics

2. Appointment received in mail for adult appointment

3. Patient calls to confirm appointment with adult clinic

4. Attends clinic appointment

5. Once patient attends appointment with adult specialist, no more care is provided by the pediatric team. Prior to transition appointment date patient is still under pediatric care. If a problem arises prior to the transition appointment, patient contacts pediatrics still. After the transition appointment, patient must call adult services. It is a clean break! This ensures you know who to contact and who is your care team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reference:

CDHNF: Children’s Digestive health and Nutrition Foundation