Transition from Pediatrics to Adult Service

Transitioning a child from pediatric to adult services requires a collaborative approach to care to ensure that families of children with complex care needs obtain the support they need. When transitioning a child with pediatric feeding disorder, including an enterally-fed child, to an adult program, consider the following:

• Identify appropriate adult eating or dysphagia programs.
• Start the process as early as 12 years of age, to allow sufficient time to consider options and all aspects involved in transitioning to an adult program. This may include advanced care planning, review of guardianship, insurance coverage, program applications, letters to support transfer of care, funding applications, obtaining information for formula and supplies. A social worker or designate is often needed to guide this process.
• Consider that there may be different requirements, including admission requirements, between pediatric and adult programs. Reviewing and updating the care plan accordingly to ensure no gaps in service, formula or supplies is important.
• Support family awareness of the Transition Roadmaps and Transition Readiness Checklist. Offer family reminders closer to the desired time for transition.
• Identify additional transition support needs of the family. Consider and explore whether there is anxiety with this transition and connect the child and family with the necessary supports.

Refer to:

Well on Your Way
AHS Transition to Adult Healthcare Roadmap
AHS Transition to Adult Healthcare Guideline for Dependent Youth
AHS Transition to Adult Healthcare Guideline for Independent Youth