Pediatric to adult health care transition: Helping young people find their footing in adult heath care

Growing up brings changes in every part of life, including health care. At some point, your child’s pediatric health care team will begin talking with you and your child about the transition from pediatric care to adult care.

It’s important to know that this change is not a single event. Rather, it is a gradual process that takes place over several years. We're here to support your family and make this process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

What is a health care transition?

A health care transition is the process of gradually shifting care from a pediatric model — one in which parents or caregivers take the lead — to an adult model, where the patient plays a more active role in managing their health.

There is no right or wrong way for this transition to take place. It will look different for every patient. Our goal is to support growing independence while ensuring continuity, understanding and confidence in care. With guidance and preparation, transitioning to adult care can be a positive and empowering experience.

Why is it important to think about the transition from pediatric to adult care?

Planning for the transition can help ensure that by the time your child is ready to transfer to adult care, they can:

• Feel more confident managing their health and making care decisions

• Understand their medical history, medications and ongoing needs

• Schedule their own appointments and refill prescriptions

• Communicate comfortably with health care providers

• Avoid gaps in care during major life changes

How is adult health care different than pediatric health care?

As a young adult, your child will see adult providers for their care and will no longer see pediatric providers. In addition:

• Young adults typically schedule their own appointments.

• Adult health care providers support the patient’s care, but most young adults are ultimately responsible for managing their medical care.

• Young adults are typically responsible for their own finances and payment.

• Young adults typically need to understand their health care insurance coverage.

• Young adults typically have to request their own treatment information.

When does health care transition happen?

Conversations about health care transition often begin during the early teen years (typically ages 12-14), with increasing independence encouraged as patients mature. Starting early allows time to build confidence and independence gradually.

If your child has a lifelong condition, this process might begin earlier. The actual transfer to adult care usually occurs between ages 18 and 21, depending on the patient’s needs and readiness. Knowing that each patient’s situation is unique, we don’t follow a set timetable as the transition process gets underway.

Transitioning from pediatric to adult care can feel like a big change for patients and families. Whether care needs are simple or more complex, we are here to support you with understanding, guidance and compassion.

If you have questions or would like to talk more about transitioning care, we encourage you to speak with your health care team.

Health Facts for You offers more in-depth information on topics vital to a smooth transition from pediatric to adult health care.