[Transition of long-term ventilated children to adult medical care]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Healthcare Transition
• Chronic Respiratory Care

Context:

• Advances in long-term ventilation have increased the number of children with chronic respiratory insufficiency reaching adulthood.
• The transition from pediatric to adult healthcare is becoming an essential process for these young patients.
• This shift is driven by medicolegal requirements, the need for increased patient autonomy, and age-related disease progression.

Purpose:

• To discuss the critical issues surrounding the transition of care for children with chronic respiratory insufficiency.
• To highlight the challenges and risks associated with this transition, including patient/parental uncertainty and potential loss of medical care.
• To outline the prerequisites for a successful transition, emphasizing structural support and comprehensive patient preparation.

Summary:

• The increasing survival of children with chronic respiratory insufficiency necessitates a structured transition from pediatric to adult care.
• Key challenges include patient/parental anxiety and the risk of fragmented or lost medical care.
• Successful transitions depend on robust structural conditions, thorough preparation, formalized transfer processes, and ongoing patient coaching.

Impact:

• Ensures continuity of care for young adults with chronic respiratory conditions.
• Facilitates patient autonomy and addresses age-related changes in disease management.
• Provides a framework for healthcare systems to optimize the transition process, improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.