Optimizing the Transition and Transfer of Care in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract

Health care transition from pediatric to adult care has been identified as a priority in the field of medicine, especially for those with chronic illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although there is no universally accepted model of preparing the pediatric patient for transfer to adult care, transition care is best accomplished in a structured and consistent manner. The authors highlight concepts for optimizing the transition of care for patients with IBD, which include setting expectations throughout adolescence with the gradual nurturing of self-management skills, preparing and assessing of readiness for transfer, and enacting a successful transfer to adult care.

Keywords: Adolescent; Crohn disease; IBD; Inflammatory bowel disease; Pediatrics; Transition care; Ulcerative colitis.