The Crucial Role of Empowerment in Engaging Adolescents and Young Adults for Independence: Essential Strategies and Skills for a Successful Transition.

BACKGROUND: An increasing number of pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are surviving into adolescence and young adulthood. The transition from pediatric to adult-oriented care occurs during a unique and vulnerable period. METHODS: Presented here is a structured approach to healthcare transition (HCT) for adolescent and young adult SOT recipients aimed at optimizing independence in order to assist young patients with adherence, self-management, and improved quality of life. RESULTS: Close attention must be paid to neurocognitive development, mental well-being, and social determinants of health. CONCLUSIONS: These efforts require a multidisciplinary team approach as well as collaboration between pediatric and adult providers in order to achieve these goals and patient longevity.

Adult provider role in transition of care for young adult pediatric recipients of liver transplant: An expert position statement.

Health care transition (HCT) is the process of changing from a pediatric to an adult model of care. Young adult pediatric recipients of liver transplant transferring from pediatric to adult health care services are highly vulnerable and subject to poor long-term outcomes. Barriers to successful transition are multifaceted. A comprehensive HCT program should be initiated early in pediatrics and continued throughout young adulthood, even after transfer of care has been completed. It is critical that pediatric and adult liver transplant providers establish a partnership to optimize care for these patients. Adult providers must recognize the importance of HCT and the need to continue the transition process following transfer. While this continued focus on HCT is essential, current literature has primarily offered guidance for pediatric providers. This position paper outlines a framework with a sample set of tools for the implementation of a standardized, multidisciplinary approach to HCT for adult transplant providers utilizing "The Six Core Elements of HCT." To implement more effective strategies and work to improve long-term outcomes for young adult patients undergoing liver transplant, HCT must be mandated as a routine part of posttransplant care. Increased advocacy efforts with the additional backing and support of governing organizations are required to help facilitate these practices.