Transitions:
A Guide to Teens Getting Older and
Changing Health Care Providers
What are transitions?
Transitions are times in your life when big changes happen, like the transition from being a teenager to becoming a young adult. This can mean:
- taking on new challenges
- doing more things on your own
- having more choices
- gaining a new sense of freedom and independence
- taking on more responsibility
Your health-care needs will change too. Your late-teen years are a good time to start thinking about your health care as an adult. The people who know you at your health care facility will help you when the time comes to switch your care to adult doctors.
Taking steps toward transition:
- Keep a record of your appointments, important medical history, phone numbers of doctors and your medications.
- Start making your own medical appointments.
- Write down questions for your doctor or nurse practitioner before your visit.
- When you see your doctor or nurse practitioner, discuss your health concerns.
- Learn about your health insurance and health care finances.
- Talk to your pediatric doctor or nurse practitioner about when is a good time for you to transfer your care.
- Meet adult providers before you begin your transitions.
- Ask questions! Be part of the plan!
Who can help me plan my transition?
- Your doctor or nurse practitioner
- Your social worker or clinic nurse
- The transition nurse coordinator
- Your parents
- A friend who has been through the same process
When should I transfer my health care?
- When my medical needs are better taken care of in an adult facility.
- When you and your doctor decide the time is right.
How do I pick a new doctor?
- Ask your doctor for ideas.
- Ask a person who has been through the process.
- Meet with your new doctor to see if it is a good match.
Things to remember:
- Your health care provider is there to help you with your transition and transfer of care.
- Transitions need lots of planning.
- Transitions are a part of growing up. They can be fun, exciting and rewarding.
Written by the CYWH and YMH Staff
Updated 2/15/2008
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