Introduction to transition of adolescents to adult rheumatology management
This topic refers to adolescents through to young adults (ie people aged 12 to 20 years).
Many childhood-onset rheumatological diseases persist into adulthood and require ongoing specialist care. The process of patient transition from paediatric to adult services is described as the purposeful planned movement of adolescents and young adults with chronic physical and medical conditions from child-oriented to adult-oriented healthcare systems.
During periods of transition, adolescents and young adults with rheumatological diseases are at risk of disengagement from the healthcare system and consequently poorer health outcomes. Transitioning can be a stressful process for patients and their families. Therefore, planning the transition program and its timing is important. A successful transition program is gradual and individualised, ensuring continuity of care while also promoting independence and optimising health and wellbeing.