Transition Other Professionals

Transitioning Youth to Adult Care   |  Healthcare Professionals  |   Other Professionals  |  Youth and Young Adults  |  Families and Support System  |  Resources

Health care transition does not happen only in the health setting. It is a collective process that takes place in many different settings such as education, employment, case management, etc. Any professional working to improve the lives of youth and young adults between the ages of 12-26 can assist in the transition process by using these easy STEPS.

Start Slow, Start Now! The time to begin this process is the present.  

  • The earlier you begin this process the more likely a successful transition plan is developed.
  • Identify the youth/students and families in this group, both with and without special health care needs.

Talk with your youth and families/caregivers about transition.

  • Help students/families to understand, identify, and access adult services and resources
  • Explore transition readiness tools with youth/students and families
  • Keep an open dialogue with youth/student and families

Educate your youth/young adult about the process, their conditions, what to expect, etc. Remember transition is a process that takes time and practice.

  • Encourage self-management activities and skills
  • Use the one on one time with your youth to reflect the one on one relationship with the physician
  • Encourage youth to ask questions about health care

Plan and begin creating a transition plan for the youth/young adult.

  • Participate in the IEP meetings
  • Incorporate self-advocacy and self-management skills in school IEP or case plan
  • Proactive consideration of health-related factors in development of transition IEPs or case plans
  • Educate families about waivers, vocational rehabilitation programs, supportive decision making and guardianship process

Support your youth in this process.

Page last updated 12/16/22