Transitioning to Adult Healthcare 

A quick guide for young people 

🔄 What is Transition? 

Transition is the process of moving from children’s (paediatric) healthcare to adult healthcare services. 

It helps you learn how to: 

✔ understand your health condition 
✔ manage your care more independently 
✔ feel confident in adult healthcare settings 

⏰ When Does Transition Start? 

Transition usually starts during your teenage years. 

During this time you will begin learning the skills you need to manage your health and prepare for adult services. 

👥 Who Is Involved? 

Transition is a team effort. 

Your transition team may include: 

🧑 You 
👨‍👩‍👧 Parents or carers 
🏥 Your healthcare team at The Royal Children’s Hospital 
🩺 Your future adult healthcare providers 
📋 A transition coordinator or lead 

Together, you will create a transition plan. 

🎯 Goals of Transition 

Transition helps you: 

🗣 Communicate confidently with doctors and health professionals 

🧠 Understand your health condition and treatment 

💪 Build independence in managing your healthcare 

📅 Take responsibility for appointments and medications 

🌱 Work toward your life goals (school, work, social life) 

🧭 What You’ll Learn 

During transition you may learn about: 

✔ What happens when you move to an adult healthcare service 
✔ What support services are available 
✔ How to manage your own health care 
✔ Finding and building a relationship with a local GP 
✔ Different adult healthcare providers you can choose from 
✔ How adult healthcare may work differently from paediatric services 

💡 Why Transition Matters 

A good transition helps you: 

⭐ Feel prepared for adult healthcare 
⭐ Become more independent 
⭐ Feel confident managing your health 
⭐ Continue working toward your future goals 

🌟 Remember 

Transition doesn’t happen overnight. 

It’s a planned process that happens over time to help you feel supported, confident and ready for adult care. 

✅ You are the most important member of your healthcare team.