Transition to Adult Healthcare: Information for Parents and Carers 

As young people with chronic conditions or disabilities grow older, they will eventually move from paediatric (children’s) healthcare services to adult healthcare services. This process is called transition. 

Transition is designed to support young people in gradually developing independence and taking greater responsibility for their healthcare, while still receiving guidance and support from their families and healthcare teams. 

 What is the Transition Process? 

Transition begins during adolescence and continues over several years. It is a planned and coordinated process involving: 

• The young person 

• Parents or carers 

• Healthcare teams at The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) 

• Community healthcare providers 

• A transition lead or coordinator 

Together, the team develops a transition plan to help prepare the young person for adult healthcare services. 

The process is tailored to the individual and considers their medical needs, personal development, and life circumstances. 

Goals of Transition 

The transition process aims to: 

• Ensure the young person continues to receive high-quality, age-appropriate healthcare 

• Help them develop important skills such as communication, decision-making, self-care and self-advocacy 

• Support increasing independence in managing their health 

• Enable them to work toward their education, employment and personal goals 
  

• Provide support and guidance for parents and carers during this change 

What Transition Means for Your Young Person 

As part of transition, young people will gradually learn to: 

• Understand their health condition and treatment 

• Take more responsibility for appointments and medications 

• Communicate directly with healthcare professionals 

• Identify and access support services 

• Establish connections with healthcare providers in the community, such as a General Practitioner (GP) 

• Prepare for the differences between paediatric and adult healthcare systems 

The Role of Parents and Carers 

Parents and carers continue to play an important role during transition by: 

• Supporting their young person as they develop independence and confidence 

• Encouraging them to take increasing responsibility for their healthcare 

• Working with healthcare teams to support the transition plan 

• Gradually shifting from managing healthcare to supporting the young person to manage it themselves 

Key Message 

Transition is a gradual, supportive process designed to help young people move successfully into adult healthcare while continuing to receive the care and support they need.