Preparing Patients for Transfer of Care: Practices of Primary Care Pediatricians

Comprehensive transition planning by pediatric providers is essential for successful transition into adulthood and transfer to adult medical health care settings. Yet, little is known about the level and type of transition planning and preparation provided by pediatric primary care providers. This study examined the range of transition services provided in primary care pediatric centers. Primary care pediatricians across two states in the Midwest were mailed an anonymous survey designed to examine the transition practices of community pediatricians. A response rate of 38.4% was obtained. Most endorsed transferring patients to adult care at age 18 or older, and using patient chronological age, health status, and patient relationship with pediatric provider as criteria to gauge transfer time. About 60% of responders provide preparation to patients before transition, usually by providing a list of adult providers or by transferring medical records. Few responders provide additional type of transition or transfer planning. Many primary care pediatricians provide transition planning, yet there is high variability in the degree of transition planning provided and 40% of pediatricians provide no such support to their patients. Transition planning is also largely limited to providing referrals and transferring medical records. Study findings support the need for outreach efforts so that all youth receive the needed education and resources to successfully transition and transfer to adult health care.