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Date of Award
Spring 2024
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Lisa Akselrad, MMS, PA-C
Abstract
As a result of technological advances in medicine, more chronically ill youth are transitioning into adulthood and subsequently transitioning out of pediatric care. During this critical shift, adolescents gain autonomy in managing their care that was once the responsibility of their parents/guardians, in addition to undergoing psychological and somatic disruptions.3 Despite recognition of the importance of this transition period from multiple medical organizations, few interventions exist to address gaps in transition care. Patient-provider relationships are a key component in helping this population understand their illness and how to properly manage their disease in order to avoid poor health outcomes. The role of caregivers during this period could either have a protective or harmful effect on transition outcomes, and as such, effective communication and shared-decision making is necessary for a successful transition to adult care. Mobile apps and transition tools, such as The STARx and TRAQ questionnaire, may be utilized by providers to employ effective patient-provider communication in assessing transition readiness and common barriers to care.
Recommended Citation
Melton, Samantha, "Improving the Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care for Adolescents with a Chronic Illness Through Effective Patient-Provider Communication" (2024). Capstone Showcase. 72.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2024/pa/72
Improving the Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care for Adolescents with a Chronic Illness Through Effective Patient-Provider Communication
As a result of technological advances in medicine, more chronically ill youth are transitioning into adulthood and subsequently transitioning out of pediatric care. During this critical shift, adolescents gain autonomy in managing their care that was once the responsibility of their parents/guardians, in addition to undergoing psychological and somatic disruptions.3 Despite recognition of the importance of this transition period from multiple medical organizations, few interventions exist to address gaps in transition care. Patient-provider relationships are a key component in helping this population understand their illness and how to properly manage their disease in order to avoid poor health outcomes. The role of caregivers during this period could either have a protective or harmful effect on transition outcomes, and as such, effective communication and shared-decision making is necessary for a successful transition to adult care. Mobile apps and transition tools, such as The STARx and TRAQ questionnaire, may be utilized by providers to employ effective patient-provider communication in assessing transition readiness and common barriers to care.