title: Transition from a pediatric HIV intramural clinical research program to adolescent and adult community-based care services:assessing transition readiness.
abstract: As treatment options have improved, there has been a significant increase in the life expectancy of HIV-infected children and adolescents. For most adolescents, the time comes when it is appropriate to transition from pediatric care to an adult or community-based provider. In response to a program closure, a transition readiness scale was developed. A total of 39 caregivers of HIV-infected youth (ages 10-18) and 12 youth over the age of 18 years were interviewed at two time points. Barriers associated with transition were identified and addressed between visits. Transition readiness improved and state anxiety decreased significantly from the first time point to the last visit (approximately 7 months later). Not having a home social worker was the most reported concern/need identified. Barriers to transition and interventions utilized to assist with transitioning care are discussed.
authors.affiliation: HIV/AIDS Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. wienerl@mail.nih.gov
authors.forename: Lori S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Wiener
authors.forename: Melissa
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Zobel
authors.forename: Haven
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Battles
authors.forename: Celia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ryder
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D016497:Adolescent Health Services; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D054547:National Cancer Institute (U.S.); D011446:Prospective Studies; D012948:Social Work Department, Hospital; D017741:Survivors; D014481:United States