Transfer versus Transition: Success in Pediatric Transplantation Brings the Welcome Challenge of Transition

Abstract

Twenty-four of 37 potential subjects completed interviews. Those who participated were enthusiastic about making a contribution to the transfer process. Most subjects cited difficulty leaving the pediatric system. Challenges included abrupt transfers, insufficient communication between pediatric and adult specialty providers, and becoming "lost to follow-up." However, there was a consistent, clear statement that subjects preferred being treated as adults. They liked healthcare staff addressing them instead of their parents, being spoken to in an adult manner, and being responsible for their own care. Suggestions for improvement included early introduction of the concept of transition to adult care, providing written material about the transition process, and use of pediatric/adult social work collaboration to provide support for young adults in transition.

Transitions in care: support group for young adults with Type 1 diabetes

“…Over the past decade, the topic of transitioning to adult care has been a concern for clinicians and researchers from many sub-specialties [6][7][8][9][10]. Several professional organizations recognize the importance of appropriate health care during this period and the need to develop transition guidelines [2,[11][12][13].…”

Monitoring adolescents and young people with inflammatory bowel disease during transition to adult healthcare

“…Addressing sexual relationships and health risk behaviours are cited as important to AYP, but they remain reluctant to ask for information and can feel inhibited by the presence of parents/guardians 4 35. Lifestyle factors such as the impact of medication on foreign travel, the risks of tattoos and piercings and also peer pressure related to health risk behaviours have been highlighted by AYP as unmet area in transition care 4.…”

An empirically based practice perspective on the transition to adulthood for solid organ transplant recipients

“…Stabile et al. interviewed 19 patients who were transferred to adult care during the previous 18 months. They also found that although subjects described challenges regarding transition, they ultimately preferred being transitioned to adult care.…”