Hait Elizabeth, Arnold Janis H, Fishman Laurie N
Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2006 Jan;12(1):70-3. doi: 10.1097/01.mib.0000194182.85047.6a.
The cyclical nature of chronic illness requires that children with inflammatory bowel disease be transitioned to the adult medical system with as much continuity of care as possible. Transition from pediatric to adult medical care continues to present significant barriers. The philosophy of transition centers on a process, with the actual transfer to adult care as a point along this clinical pathway. Concrete steps can be taken to help patients prepare for new responsibilities. The aim of this review is to propose a clinical and developmental timeline for both patients and their medical team, including specific responsibilities for both, so that the partnership can best promote a successful transition.
