transition planning
Systematic preparation process for youth moving between different levels of care or from child to adult mental health services.
Full Definition
Transition planning in child and adolescent psychiatry involves coordinated preparation for youth moving between treatment settings or aging out of pediatric services. This process includes assessment of readiness for transition, identification of continuing care needs, coordination between sending and receiving providers, and development of skills necessary for successful adjustment. Key transitions include movement from inpatient to outpatient care, from residential to community-based services, and from adolescent to adult mental health systems. Effective transition planning addresses medical, psychological, social, educational, and vocational needs while ensuring continuity of care and minimizing treatment disruption during vulnerable transition periods.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'discharge planning' which focuses on immediate post-discharge needs rather than longer-term transition processes.
In Context
- "The treatment team initiated transition planning six months before the patient's 18th birthday to ensure continuity of psychiatric care." — Treatment coordination note