It is good to find adult healthcare providers early to help make your transition from pediatric to adult care as smooth as possible.
Talk to your pediatric providers about the right time to transition your care. If possible, have your first appointment while you are still being seen by your old provider in case there are questions about your condition or treatment. Ask any new medical practices if they are on Care Everywhere and have access to your CHOP medical records. If not, ask your current team for help sending your medical records to your new provider.
Remember to always be polite and confident when interacting with your healthcare team!
How to find adult healthcare providers:
- Ask your current healthcare team for a referral
- Ask your parents/adult family members if they’d recommend their healthcare team, and consider if you’d like to go there
- Call your insurance company or look at your online insurance portal for providers in your insurance network
- Check with your local support groups
- Ask your care coordinator or case manager for suggestions
- Ask friends for suggestions
- Look online at different hospital or healthcare system websites
Questions to ask
Before you choose your new healthcare provider, call their office and ask to speak with a staff member who works directly in the office. It may feel awkward to ask some of these questions but remember that you deserve to feel comfortable with your new provider. It is important to find a practice that meets your healthcare needs. You can also make an appointment to meet the healthcare provider to make sure they are a good fit for you.
Ask the office:
- Are they taking new patients?
- Do they accept your insurance coverage?
- What are the office hours? How can they be reached after hours?
- What is the appointment cancellation policy?
- Are there telemedicine options?
- Is there a provider that speaks my preferred language? (All offices should offer interpreter services)
- If needed, is the office accessible? For example, do they have wheelchair ramps, interpreters, etc.?
Ask the healthcare provider:
- Are they willing to discuss your health history and special needs with your pediatric team?
- Do they currently see patients with health conditions similar to yours? If not, is the healthcare provider comfortable managing your care?
- At what hospital does the provider schedule procedures?
- Who will I see if my provider is not available, such as for sick visits?
- How will the provider exchange information with your other specialists and providers?
- Is lab work performed at the office? What about imaging tests like X-rays?
Ask yourself:
- Does the provider listen to your questions and concerns?
- Can they explain information so that you can understand it?
- Do they take enough time to answer your questions?
- Does the provider treat you with respect?
- Did you feel comfortable interacting with the provider as well as the other staff in the office?
Overall, when looking for a healthcare provider, it’s important to choose someone you can trust and who will become a compassionate advocate for you and your health for many years.
For more information and tips for transitioning to adult healthcare, visit CHOP’s Transition to Adulthood Services resources.