You may remember, not too long ago, stepping into the pediatrician's office for your child's very first visit. And you might have been a little nervous as you got to know the person who'd be caring for your little one. But after years of interaction (complete with late-night phone calls, last-minute appointments, and trustworthy advice), your pediatrician probably feels like part of the family. So when the time comes for your child to transition into adult health care, it can be hard to say goodbye.
Done abruptly, this change can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing for you and your child. But if you're both prepared and plan accordingly, it can be a smooth step on the path to adulthood.
Finding a New Doctor
Once kids become legal adults at age 18, they should visit an adult primary care physician (PCP), such as an internal medicine doctor (internist), a general practitioner, or a family medicine doctor. Your pediatrician, who is specifically trained to care for kids and teens, might be able to provide care for a little longer if your child is in college (usually until college graduation or age 21). But this varies from doctor to doctor, so be sure to ask.
Ask your pediatrician for a referral if you don't have a family doctor that your child wants to see or if your child has a chronic condition that will require an adult specialist's care. If your child has a rare condition, disability, or pediatric-onset condition (one that only develops in childhood), it may be challenging to find a PCP or adult specialist who is knowledgeable and comfortable caring for these complex needs. In this case, start searching for doctors early on, during the teen years.
Ask if your child can see a new doctor for a trial period; then, follow up with the pediatric specialist to discuss how things went and put both doctors in touch to plan for the transition of care. Allow plenty of time for this process — that way, if there is an issue your child can continue seeing the pediatric specialist until you find an adult provider who is a better fit.