Transitioning to Adult Care NEW

In healthcare, “transition” means moving from children’s services to adult services.

For people with CF, this is an important part of growing up. It involves moving from paediatric care to an adult CF service. For some, this means changing teams within the same hospital. For others, it means moving to a different hospital.

Transition is not a single event. It is a gradual process that involves planning and preparation, so you and your family feel ready for the change.

There is no one set way this process happens in Ireland, as hospitals may manage it differently. However, the information below can help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

What will transition involve?

Transition means getting ready to move to a team that specialises in caring for adults with CF.

As part of this, you will become more involved in managing your own healthcare and taking on more independence.

You will learn more about your condition and your medical history. You will also take a more active role in managing your medications, treatments, tests, and appointments.

Learning how to stay well is an important part of this process. This includes attending clinic appointments, eating well, staying active, and making healthy lifestyle choices.

What challenges could I expect during the transition process?

It’s normal for any change to bring some challenges, and moving to adult care is no different.

Some of the main challenges include:

Moving from a place you know well to a new healthcare setting

Getting to know a new team and understanding their roles

Your child becoming more independent in managing their condition

Taking a step back as a parent and main care giver

Your child starting to make decisions about their own healthcare and treatments

These changes can take time, and support is available to help you adjust.

Getting ready for transition

Talk to your team and log on to Stepping Up , which had lots of reading material and tips to prepare you for the move. You can also watch video clips of other people with CF who have gone through the transition process.

Talk to your healthcare team about the move to adult services. They can answer your questions and help you prepare.

You can also visit Stepping Up, which has lots of useful information and tips to help you get ready.

There are also videos where people with CF share their own experiences of moving to adult care, which you may find helpful.

By learning more and preparing ahead, you can build confidence and feel more ready for the move to adult care.

It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Your parents or guardians, along with your healthcare team, are there to support you every step of the way.

Further information

Stepping Up is a website designed to help young people with long-term health conditions prepare for the move to adult healthcare services. It includes helpful information, tips, and real-life experiences.

Transitioning to Adult Care NEW

Transitioning to Adult Care NEW

Transitioning to Adult Hospital Services