Transition process for young patients: challenges and solutions!

Transition process for young patients: challenges and solutions!

On March 13th and 14th, 2026, the second day of care for seriously ill patients will take place in the Audimax of the University of Lübeck under the motto “Growing up with a serious illness: How do you make the transition?” instead of. This event is aimed at adolescents with serious illnesses and addresses the complex transition process from child-centered to adult-centered health care. The patron of the event is Prof. Dr. Helge Braun, President of the University of Lübeck, who is organizing a public political round table on the topic.

The focus is on providing information about causes, diagnostics and therapies in various medical disciplines during the transition. These include neurology, oncology, rheumatology, cardiology, rhythmology and pulmonology. Another concern of the conference is the empowerment of young patients in order to support the transition from a family-centered approach to independent use of health services.

Transition in healthcare

In healthcare, transition describes the transition process that prepares chronically ill young people for the move to adult clinics. This includes medical, psychosocial and individual needs and should be understood as a planned, multi-year process. The challenges in this context are significant. Up to 40% of young people lose access to specialized medical care during the transition.

A well-planned transition is crucial to avoid negative effects such as increased graft loss or worsening HbA1c levels in type 1 diabetes. The new S3 guidelines therefore recommend an individualized transition plan, which should be discussed as early as the 16th birthday. Goals and activities should be realistic and tailored to individual needs, without being rigidly tied to the 18th birthday.

Important recommendations and resources

The transition program at the University Clinic for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine includes a comprehensive toolbox with resources for specialist staff, patients and caregivers. These include talking boards, checklists and information flyers that support the transition process. Interdisciplinary teams consisting of doctors, nurses, psychologists and social workers are essential for a smooth process.

A responsible contact person should be responsible for coordinating the transition process. Parents play an important role, but should be involved in the process gradually so as not to overwhelm them. Digital media can also serve as support and topics such as sexuality and substance use should be included in the exchange.

However, the financing and structure of the transition in Germany remain inadequate. This makes events like the 2nd Day of Serious Illness Care, which are intended to promote dialogue about these essential topics, all the more important. Loud aerzteblatt.de It is crucial that young adults with serious illnesses are well supported so that they are not left behind during this critical phase of transition.

Overall, the 2nd day of seriously ill care offers a valuable platform to exchange knowledge and develop strategies that make the transition to adult medicine easier for young patients. Information and support during this phase of life is essential to create the best possible transition conditions.

For more information about the event please visit uni-luebeck.de and meduniwien.ac.at.