What is the age range covered by pediatrics?

I've been wondering, at what age does pediatrics stop being the primary medical field for a child? I know it covers infancy and childhood, but when does it transition to adult medicine?

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Great question! Pediatrics typically covers patients from birth up to around age 21. However, some pediatricians may continue to care for their patients into young adulthood, depending on the individual's needs and the pediatrician's comfort level. This is because the transition from pediatric to adult care can be challenging for some young adults, especially those with chronic conditions.

It's also worth noting that there's a field called adolescent medicine, which focuses on the unique health needs of teenagers. This field is a subspecialty of pediatrics, and it covers patients from ages 11 to 21. Adolescent medicine specialists are trained to address the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during adolescence, as well as any health issues that are common in this age group.

Another interesting fact is that there's a growing trend towards 'young adult' or 'early adulthood' clinics, which aim to bridge the gap between pediatric and adult care. These clinics are designed to provide specialized care and support to young adults who may be struggling to navigate the healthcare system on their own. They often have multidisciplinary teams of healthcare providers, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and mental health specialists, who work together to help young adults achieve their health goals.