1. Transition to Adult-Oriented Health Care: Perspectives of Youth and Adults with Complex Physical Disabilities.
- Author
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Young, Nancy L., Barden, Wendy S., Mills, Wendy A., Burke, Tricia A., Law, Mary, and Boydell, Katherine
- Subjects
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SERVICES for people with disabilities , *MEDICAL care of youth , *CEREBRAL palsy , *SPINA bifida , *BRAIN injuries ,MEDICAL care for people with disabilities - Abstract
Introduction: The transition to adulthood is extremely difficult for individuals with disabilities. We sought to explore the specific issue of transition to adult-oriented health care in a Canadian context. Methods: We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 15 youth and 15 adults with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and acquired brain injuries of childhood, and their parents ( n = 30). Respondents discussed their health care services, their experience with clinical transition, and contributing factors. We analyzed the transcripts using qualitative methods. Results: All participants identified challenges in transition, including: lack of access to health care; lack of professionals' knowledge; lack of information and uncertainty regarding the transition process. Two solutions were identified: early provision of detailed information and more extensive support throughout the clinical transition process. Discussion: The challenges of clinical transition were universal. More extensive information and support is needed during transition to ensure an efficient move to appropriate adult-oriented health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
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