The transition from Children's Continuing Healthcare to Adult Continuing Healthcare is an important process that involves careful planning and coordination to ensure a smooth and seamless shift in healthcare services as you become an adult.
Below is an easy-read guide to what happens, you should talk to those providing your care for more in-depth information, or have questions about how it relates to you.
Step 1
If you are getting Children’s Continuing Care, a nurse will refer you to the Adult Continuing Care team when you're about 16 or 17.
The Adult’s Continuing Health Care team will assess if you're likely to qualify for Adult’s Continuing Care when you turn 18.
Step 2
If the checklist shows that you may be eligible, a full assessment will be carried out using the National Decision Support Tool.
The assessment will help professionals involved in your care to understand your current health and care needs, and any potential changes as you grow up into adulthood.
Step 3
A care and support plan may be developed based on the assessment, which takes into account your preferences, goals, and aspirations. You and your family or support network, will take part in the planning process.
The transition from Children's to Adult Continuing Healthcare process thinks about not only the medical aspects but also your overall well-being, independence, and life goals.
You can find more detailed information about the process here.
Remember the eligibility criteria for Adult’s Continuing Care are different from Children’s Continuing Care, so there is a chance that you no longer qualify depending on the progress you have made or if the nature of your condition has changed.