Lessons Learned from Building a Pediatric-to-Adult Sickle Cell Transition Program. Issue 3 (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Wally R.; Sisler, India Y.; Johnson, Shirley; Lipato, Thokozeni J.; Newlin, Jennifer S.; Owens, Zakiya S.; Morgan, Alma M.; Treadwell, Marsha J.; Polak, Kathryn
• Is Part Of: Southern medical journal. Volume 112:Issue 3(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: care coordination -- medical home -- pediatric-to adult-transition -- sickle cell disease -- transition of care; Medicine -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.14423/SMJ.0000000000000950
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-4348

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: More effective transitions and transfers of young people with sickle cell disease (SCD) into the adult healthcare setting is a focus of both primary care and specialty care medical organizations. Effective transition and transfer requires six core elements: establishing a policy, tracking progress, administering transition readiness assessments, planning for adult care, transferring to adult care, and integrating into an adult practice. We developed a program using these six core elements. The objective of our report was to assess the development and implementation of this program. Methods: We used the six core elements to develop and implement a program at Virginia Commonwealth University for children and adolescents with SCD to transition to adult health care. Results: We assessed individuals' differences by age and grade, their independent living skills, their feelings about moving to adult care; tallied and analyzed several assessment scales; and assessed transfer success and patient retention. Conclusions: The principles and lessons we learned in developing and implementing this program over 5 years, accompanied by caring, flexible, and dedicated care team members, often can overcome even severe barriers to care transitions. Abstract : This article provides the process and outcomes of the sometimes difficult process of implementing a pediatric-to-adult transition of care program for children with sickle cell disease. Results show how the program addressed the six core elements of transition: establishing a policy, tracking progress, administering transition readiness assessments, planning for adult care, transferring, and integrating into an adult practice.