Committee opinion no. 626: the transition from pediatric to adult health care: preventive care for young women aged 18-26 years.
Young women (aged 18-26 years) are a heterogeneous population transitioning from adolescence into adulthood who may present with unique issues and challenges, including a potential gap in health care after pediatric health care. Obstetrician-gynecologists should note that these patients may need assistance in transitioning from a pediatrician to a provider of adult health care (an internist, family practitioner, or obstetrician-gynecologist), especially in the absence of a parent. Preventive counseling is crucial for helping young women anticipate changes and stressors and for easing their life transitions. A preventive health care visit offers the obstetrician-gynecologist an opportunity to screen for health issues and counsel the patient about a variety of health topics, some of which are particularly relevant to young women.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D011314:Preventive Health Services; D060305:Transition to Adult Care; D055815:Young Adult