The Transition Navigator Trial team
Principal Investigators: Dr. Susan Samuel, Dr. Andrew Mackie, Dr. Gina Dimitropoulos
The University of Calgary and The University of Alberta
The transition from pediatric to adult health services can be challenging for youth with chronic health and/or mental health conditions. Transition to adult health care is the process leading up to and the actual transfer of care from pediatric to adult services. This transition period can lead to outcomes such as more frequent trips to the emergency room, less frequent appointments with doctors, and increased difficulty managing health conditions. The Transition Navigator Trial is a research study that is investigating how we can make the transition to adult care smoother. This study is using a patient navigator to assist youth who have chronic conditions, like autism, IBD, or diabetes, move from their pediatric doctors to a new adult one. The patient navigator helps youth with a wide range of things relating to their transition. They can help youth prepare for the actual transfer of care, develop the necessary skills for adult care, and reduce barriers such as social and financial concerns that may cause difficulty in accessing medical care.
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