transition of care planning

Full Definition

Transition of care planning is a structured, developmentally appropriate process designed to prepare adolescents and young adults with chronic medical conditions for the eventual transfer from pediatric to adult healthcare systems. This process typically begins in early adolescence and includes gradual transfer of healthcare responsibility to the young person, development of self-advocacy skills, creation of portable medical summaries, and identification of appropriate adult care providers. Effective transition planning addresses both medical and psychosocial needs while ensuring continuity of care.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from general discharge planning; this specifically refers to long-term developmental process for chronic conditions.

In Context

• "Transition of care planning should begin by age 14 for adolescents with chronic conditions such as diabetes or congenital heart disease." — Clinical practice guideline
• "The transition of care planning process included creating a portable medical summary and identifying adult specialists." — Care coordination documentation