adolescent health transition
Planned movement of teenagers with chronic health conditions from pediatric to adult-oriented healthcare systems.
Full Definition
Adolescent health transition refers to the purposeful, planned process of moving teenagers and young adults from child-centered to adult-oriented healthcare systems. This process is particularly crucial for adolescents with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or congenital heart disease. Effective transition includes preparation beginning in early adolescence, development of self-management skills, gradual transfer of responsibility from parents to patients, and coordination between pediatric and adult providers. The process addresses not only medical care transfer but also developmental readiness, insurance considerations, and maintenance of care continuity. Poor transition can result in gaps in care and adverse health outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'adolescent health transition' to specify the developmental focus, distinguishing from general 'transition of care' between providers.
In Context
- "The adolescent health transition program prepared 18-year-olds with chronic conditions for transfer to adult specialty care." — Program evaluation report
- "Clinical protocols emphasized the importance of starting adolescent health transition planning by age 14." — Practice guideline