Watching your child mature is one of the best parts of being a parent. But just as all children outgrow their clothes and toys, they will also move beyond the capabilities of their pediatrician’s office. And while the transition from pediatric to primary adult care can be multifaceted, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Andrew Piropato, MD, PPG – Pediatrics, offers expert insight and guidance regarding this milestone and answers some of the most frequently asked questions weighing on every parent’s mind.
If a child is relatively healthy, do they really need a new doctor when they turn 18?
The answer is, yes! Most pediatricians will stop seeing patients around ages 18 to 21. During the high school and college years, well-child visits turn into annual checkups where important topics such as growth, development, physical exams, vaccinations and routine health screenings are still covered.
Also, as pediatricians, we cherish the opportunity to follow our patients through every stage, from the sleepless nights of infancy to puberty and beyond. As a child graduates high school and faces new challenges, they will also “graduate” from the pediatrician’s office. Fortunately, we are here to help make that adult-care transition easier.
What type of doctor should patients transitioning from pediatric to adult care look for?
Most adults are cared for by primary care practitioners with training in Family Medicine (physicians who see patients throughout their lifespan) or Internal Medicine (physicians who see patients ages 18 and up). Women may also choose to establish care with an OB/GYN at this time if their primary care practitioner is not providing that care.
Should parents and caregivers provide a medical summary and emergency care plan to their child’s new provider?
Yes, we recommend keeping all pertinent health records on file as a child grows. Electronic access through MyChart can help with this and make the transition to adult care smoother. As part of a new patient appointment, the child’s new physician will ask for relevant details about their medical history. Their current provider/pediatrician can assist by providing records, growth charts, test results and other information that may impact the child’s care moving forward.
A smooth transition to adult care is also crucial for children with special healthcare needs, chronic conditions and those who require subspecialty care. Not only is it essential to establish a relationship with a new primary care physician, but that child may need a new specialist, too. In those cases, most pediatricians will assist with the shift by providing a transfer package, which includes a summary of relevant information for the new provider to get to know the patient and their health needs.
Helpful hint: Choosing a new primary care physician before transferring to new specialists is best. The child’s primary care provider can assist in finding the appropriate adult specialists.
What else can parents do to prepare their child(ren) for this healthcare transition?
Parents can help their child learn and take responsibility for their own healthcare, just like they would any transition in life. As they enter their teenage years, children can participate more in the decision-making process surrounding their health. As pediatricians, we want to help facilitate that self-advocacy. For example, we often meet with teenagers without their caregivers in the exam room in an effort to begin building that autonomy. Parents can also gradually increase independence by allowing their child to:
- Fill out forms
- Keep track of their appointments
- Call to make or reschedule their appointments
- Learn to take medicine reliably on their own
- Access the MyChart app and view their own health records
Before the initial visit with the new provider, will a child’s pediatrician remain available?
Yes! We strive to optimize chronic, physical or mental health conditions as much as possible prior to the changeover. To ensure a smooth transition, we will ensure any outstanding tests get followed up on, prescriptions get refilled, and we remain available for any acute health needs that may arise.
Seeking additional support
If parents and children preparing to embark on this new chapter into adulthood have questions or concerns, they should speak with their pediatrician. They can assist with the transition process and finding appropriate adult healthcare providers.
For additional information, visit Got Transition, an organization dedicated to helping adolescents, parents, caregivers and practitioners improve the healthcare transition process.
