Effective Handling of Health Care Transition for Young People Living With HIV: A Consensus of Experts in Thailand...

The aim of our study was to develop consensus from experts and advocates on the health care transition for young people living with HIV from pediatrics to adult care in Thailand using a modified Delphi method. Participants included physicians (58%), nurses (20%), clinic coordinators (11%), and outreach workers (11%). Survey items were distributed to gather responses. Consensus was achieved after two rounds of surveys (response rates: 86% and 94.5%, respectively). Key priorities identified included (1) pediatric clinics: early transition planning, individualized readiness assessment, and focusing on youth with an increased risk of poor treatment outcomes; (2) transition process: strong pediatric-adult clinic collaboration; (3) health care coverage scheme and system: making sure that youth are familiar with their resources and options; (4) adult clinics: providing communication skills training for providers aimed at offering youth-friendly, nonstigmatizing services; and (5) post-transition follow-up: communication to ensure a warm handoff. Effective transition care for young people living with HIV requires early preparation, sustained interclinic communication, and continuity-supportive care models.