Mind the Gap: Improving Care in Pediatric-to-Adult Rheumatology Transition Through Education.

Adolescence and young adulthood represents a vulnerable period in the life of patients with rheumatic diseases, many of whom struggle with self-management of their chronic disease and adjustment to care with adult rheumatologists. Many adult rheumatologists are uncomfortable caring for young adults, especially those with pediatric-onset diagnoses. The recent development of evidence-based best practices, expert opinion recommendations, and validated tools can assist pediatric and adult rheumatologists in caring for adolescent and young adult patients. Uptake of these guidelines and resources remains low, underscoring the need for rheumatologists and trainees to receive explicit training in the application of transition best practices.

Duke Scholars

Author Rebecca Eli Sadun Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology