Objective To assess European pediatric rheumatology providers’ current
clinical practices and resources used in the transition from child-centered to
adult-oriented care. Methods European pediatric rheumatologists were invited
to complete a 17-item anonymized e-survey assessing current transition
practices, transition policy awareness, and needs in advance of the
publication of EULAR/PReS recommendations on transition. Results The response
rate was 121/276 (44%), including responses from 115 centers in 22 European
Union countries. Although 32/121 (26%) responded that their centers did not
offer transition services, the majority (99%) agreed that a formalized process
in transitioning patients to adult care is necessary. A minority (<30%) of
respondents stated that they have a written transition policy although 46%
have an informal transition process. Designated staff to support transitional
care were available in a minority of centers: nurse (35%), physiotherapist
(15%), psychologist (15%), social worker (8%), and occupational therapist
(2%). The existence of a designated team member to coordinate transition was
acknowledged in many centers (64% of respondents) although just 36% use a
checklist for young people as part of individualized transitional care.
Conclusion This survey of European pediatric rheumatology providers regarding
transitional care practices demonstrates agreement that transitional care is
important, and wide variation in current provision of transition services
exists
