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. 2022 May;70(5):829-832.
doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.12.011. Epub 2022 Feb 11.

Transition to Adulthood for Autistic Adolescents: Topics Discussed by Healthcare Providers With Autistic Patients and Families

Rachel K Myers  1 , Christina Labows  2 , Benjamin E Yerys  3 , Catherine C McDonald  4 , Emma B Sartin  2 , Cynthia J Mollen  5 , Allison E Curry  6
Affiliations

Transition to Adulthood for Autistic Adolescents: Topics Discussed by Healthcare Providers With Autistic Patients and Families

Rachel K Myers et al. J Adolesc Health. 2022 May.

Abstract

Purpose: We surveyed healthcare providers to determine the extent to which they discuss transition-to-adulthood topics with autistic patients without intellectual disabilities.

Methods: Seventy-four healthcare providers in the Philadelphia area reported on the patient age at which they begin transition conversations, topics covered, and provider comfort. We calculated the proportion of providers who endorsed each transition topic, overall and by clinical setting.

Results: Providers initiated transition-related conversations at a median age of 16 years (IQR: 14, 18), with over half reporting they were "somewhat" or "a little" comfortable with discussions. Nearly all providers discussed at least one healthcare, well-being, and mental health topic, while basic need-related discussions were limited.

Discussion: Results suggest providers may delay and feel poorly prepared to provide anticipatory guidance to autistic patients for transition to adulthood. Future efforts to enhance the available resources and preparation available to providers are essential to meet autistic patients' needs.

Keywords: Activities of daily living; Adolescent health services; Autism spectrum disorder; Delivery of healthcare; Quality of life; Transition to adult care.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Statement: None of the authors have real or perceived potential conflicts of interest to disclose.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. Proportion of Providers who Endorsed Each Transition Topic and Comfort Discussing Transition.a
a Topics are presented in rank order within higher-level category (well-being, physical health, mental health, basic needs) overall and by each clinical setting.
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