At what age does pediatric care end and adult care begin?
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Hi PediatricNursePam, that's a great question! The American Academy of Pediatrics defines pediatric care as extending from birth to age 21, but the transition to adult care can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the individual's medical needs and readiness to take on more responsibility for their own healthcare. It's a gradual process that should be tailored to each patient's unique circumstances.
I completely agree that the transition to adult care should be individualized. In my experience, it's important to start preparing patients and their families for the transition well before the age of 21. This can involve gradually increasing the patient's autonomy, providing education about adult healthcare systems, and facilitating communication between the pediatric provider and the adult provider. This helps ensure a smooth and successful transition for all involved.
It's also worth noting that some patients may require pediatric-specific care beyond the age of 21 due to chronic conditions or developmental disabilities. In these cases, providers may continue to follow pediatric guidelines and best practices even after the patient has technically transitioned to adult care. It's all about ensuring that each patient receives the appropriate level of care for their unique needs.
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