When should I transition my child to an adult provider?

You anticipate and celebrate the big moments in your child's life – from their first steps to their high school graduation. But what about the less-obvious milestones, like the last trip to their pediatric doctor and their first visit to an adult provider? Lots of families don't think about these changes until they’re happening — which can lead to gaps in care. Fortunately, proactive planning can help make the transition smoother — especially for young people managing chronic health conditions.
In this episode, host Dr. Jennifer Arnold discusses transitioning to adult care with Dr. Ahmet Uluer, director of Boston Children's BRIDGES Adult Transition Program and Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program. Together, they explore the rationale behind transitioning and practical strategies for ensuring a seamless shift in health care providers, answering questions such as:
• Why do teens need help transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers?
• What does "hybrid" or "co-production" of care entail?
• Why is it important to have a transition plan as your teen approaches adulthood?
• How do the areas of expertise differ between adult and pediatric health care providers?
• How does the Boston Children’s BRIDGES Adult Transition Program facilitate seamless transitions for patients to adult health care providers?
• What is the difference between a transition and a transfer?
• Where can parents look for a local care transition program?
• Why is empathy a crucial component for caregivers involved in the process of transitioning to adult health care providers?
• How do pediatric and adult care approaches differ, and why is this significant during the transition phase?
• What are some typical health conditions that prompt families to develop a transition plan from pediatric to adult health care for seamless health care management?
• When is the best time to transition care from pediatric to adult health care providers?
• Are there any signs that someone is ready to transition care to adult health care providers?
• What does the care transition process look like for families and patients?
• How does the transition from pediatric care to adult care contribute to the overall improvement of health care delivery?

Transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers is just another milestone. Embracing it will empower your child to be confident entering the next phase of their health care journey.