Difficulties in Transition of Care from Pediatric to Adult Gynecology Providers: Should We Maintain Care into Adulthood?

Abstract

There is evidence that transfer of care for older adolescent patients to adult care is associated with a deterioration in health, especially in those with chronic conditions. Because several specific conditions in pediatric and adolescent gynecology continue into adulthood, it is important that patients have a seamless healthcare transition. In this commentary, it is argued that instead of arranging transfer, long-term retention of patients by the same physician or physician team may be the more caring, patient-centered approach.

Keywords: Health care transition; Patient retention; Pediatric and adolescent gynecology; Transition of care.