Healthcare transitions for adolescents with chronic life-threatening conditions using a Delphi method to identify research priorities for clinicians and academics in Canada.

PURPOSE

Research has only begun to examine the complexity of transition to adulthood under illness conditions. A Delphi method may be utilized to identify pertinent research priorities for academics and clinicians in adolescent healthcare transitions and prioritize a framework for an ongoing programme of research.

METHODS

Through a comprehensive recruitment strategy throughout Canada, 114 clinicians and academics were invited to participate in this national study. Three phases were conducted until consensus could be achieved for the five most pressing research priorities.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight respondents completed at least one of the three phases of the process. All responses were analysed, and five questions in phase 3 achieving a level of consensus ranging 64-80% were identified as the top five research priorities. These questions included: skills and knowledge adolescents require for the transition process, how to measure success, the factors that influence a successful transition and whether good transitions improve health outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study can inform and prioritize a framework for an ongoing programme of research in Canada. The inclusion of clinicians and academics ensures that the research agenda incorporates perspectives from the front-line work of individuals providing care to this population as well as individuals from the academic community with important knowledge and skills related to research approaches and methods.