EARLY STAGE 12-14 YEARS
Getting involved in your transition early ensures a smoother leap between paediatric and adult care. This means learning a bit more about your condition, medication and feeling comfortable in openly discussing these things with your healthcare team. Don't be afraid to ask questions—you're not expected to know everything!
To get an idea of where you’re up to, have a look at the Checklist for Young People
MIDDLE STAGE 14-16 YEARS
Preparing ahead before you transition will ensure peace of mind for you. At this stage, it is wise to slowly start participating in short individual discussions with your healthcare professional. You could, as a start, talk about your condition, medication and mental health status with them without your parents for a short time. It could be the whole, or a part of the appointment as you wish—don't be afraid to ask for what you're comfortable with, it's your choice!
Now is the time to see how ready you are to transition. Take our Transition Readiness Checklist to your next appointment and complete it with your health care team at the children’s hospital.
LATE STAGE 16-18
At this stage of transition it is important that you take responsibility for your health, i.e. knowing your condition, its treatment, and emergency contacts. It will be very beneficial if you are comfortable talking about personal business such as sexual health, mental health and your lifestyle choices. It is important that you have a GP you trust when it comes to transition!
Be sure to have your transition plan completed before you leave the children’s hospital so you know who will be looking after you in the adult world.
To learn more about the stages of transition, download this factsheet:
