Rhode Island Department of HealthState of Rhode Island
Department of Health
Rhode Island Department of HealthState of Rhode Island
Department of Health
Health affects all aspects of life. School, community, and employment success are all associated with health. The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is committed to ensuring each person, at every age, receives medically and developmentally appropriate care to promote optimal health. (more) This is particularly important for adolescents and young adults, including those with special needs, as they move from adolescence to adulthood. Healthcare transition can be defined as a purposeful, planned process that addresses the medical, psychosocial, educational, and vocational needs of adolescents and young adults as they move into adulthood.
Healthcare transition planning is important, because all teens should receive quality healthcare that is appropriate for their age. As teens grow into adulthood, their healthcare needs change, and most will need to leave their pediatricians for adult healthcare providers. Transitioning to adult healthcare is also part of the process of becoming independent and learning to manage one’s own health.
Check out our Healthcare Transition Guide for Parents and Caregivers and begin planning for your teen’s healthcare transition early in adolescence. (more)
Adopt a transition policy and conduct transition planning as a standard component care for all youth and young adults. (more)