Transitioning to Adult Care
Around age 18, patients typically need to move from pediatric to adult healthcare. This transition isn't just about seeing a new doctor. It also reflects a broader shift in how care is delivered. Adult healthcare emphasizes patient independence, so it's important to be prepared to manage more aspects of your health on your own.
Table of Contents
Key Changes You’ll Encounter
Shift in Care Philosophy:
Pediatric care is often family-centered, with parents or guardians heavily involved. Adult care expects the patient to take the lead in decision-making, communication, and management.
Legal and Privacy Changes:
Once you turn 18, healthcare providers are legally required to keep your medical information confidential, even from your parents or guardians, unless you give written permission.
Routine and Preventative Care Changes:
Adult care places a stronger emphasis on preventative screenings (e.g., pap smears, cholesterol checks, etc.), mental health discussions, and lifestyle counseling that may not have been part of your pediatric visits.
How to Let a Parent or Guardian Stay Involved After You Turn 18
Remember, once you turn 18, it is ultimately your decision who you share your information with!
1. HIPAA Authorization Form
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This allows you to specify who can access your medical records and talk to your doctors.
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You can grant access to one or more people and revoke it at any time.
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When you check in at the doctor’s office, they often include a HIPAA authorization option in the paperwork. If it’s not included, you can always ask for one at the front desk or call ahead to request it.
2. Medical Power of Attorney (also called Health Care Proxy or Health Care Power of Attorney)
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This gives someone the legal right to make healthcare decisions for you if you're unable to.
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It’s especially useful in emergencies or if you become temporarily incapacitated.
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Unlike HIPAA forms, this often requires notarization or witnesses.
State-Specific Requirements:
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Each state has different forms and rules about how these documents must be completed (e.g., witnesses, notarization).
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You can usually find your state's specific forms on your state government or health department website.
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Some universities and healthcare providers also offer premade forms for young adults transitioning to independence.
How to Set It Up:
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Decide who you trust to access your records or make decisions for you.
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Fill out a HIPAA Authorization and/or Medical Power of Attorney form for your state.
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Have it signed, witnessed, or notarized if needed.
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Share a copy with your healthcare providers and keep one for your records.
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Update the forms if your preferences change.
Tip: If you’re going to college out of state, complete forms for both your home and school states just to be safe.
Essential Tasks
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Scheduling your own appointments
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Refilling prescriptions
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Understanding your insurance and copays
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Keeping track of medications and medical history
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Communicating directly with your providers
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Navigating referrals and prior authorizations
Start Preparing Early:
Begin learning how to manage your care a year or two before aging out of pediatric services.
Ask for a Transition Plan:
Many pediatric providers can help create a transition plan that outlines timelines, steps, and needed documentation. We also have our own WellMatrix Transition Guide!
Secure Medical Records:
If you're moving between systems (different hospital networks or electronic health record (EHR) systems), request a complete copy of your records. You may be able to access them through a patient portal, or request printed or digital copies.
Ask for a Clinical Summary or Transition Memo:
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One-page overview of your diagnosis, treatment journey, and current regimen
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Summary of past treatments that didn’t work
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Plan for future care
Understand Your Insurance:
Learn whether you're staying on your parents' insurance or moving to your own. Make sure your new providers are in-network and know how to verify coverage.
Mental Health Support:
The transition can be emotionally challenging, especially for those with complex conditions or disabilities. Ensure continuity of mental health care and support systems.
Know When a New Provider Is Needed:
You only need to change providers if they only treat pediatric patients (which is common with pediatricians and some pediatric specialists). Some family medicine doctors see both kids and adults and may continue your care
Coordinate Across Life Changes:
If you're moving for college, work, or another reason, identify adult providers in your new area ahead of time. Some providers offer virtual visits that can help bridge the gap.
Transitioning to adult care is a learning process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, whether that’s to your doctors, insurance reps, or trusted adults. The WellMatrix community is also here to help you through this transition! Building self-advocacy skills now will help you feel more confident and in control of your health long-term. You can use our guide to measure your progress and confidence in key skills!