Transition of the Adolescent Transplant Patient to Adult Care

Pediatric liver transplant recipients are surviving into adulthood at increasing rates, so attention is being focused on long-term outcomes, including the transition from pediatric transplant care to adult-centered transplant care. The transition process can be a challenging phase for patients, families, and providers. However, a routine assessment of transition readiness may lead to the early identification and remediation of potential barriers related to medical stability, regimen adherence, psychosocial functioning, insurance coverage, transportation, and the availability of an adult provider. Transition planning should be an integral component of the care of a pediatric transplant recipient.