Taking Steps Towards Transition

• Plan ahead!
• Know how to explain your disorder and your health care needs.
• Keep a record of appointments, medical history, doctors and phone numbers, medications and formulas.
• Begin to make your own medical appointments.
• Write down questions for your doctor before your visit.
• Spend time with your health care provider without your parents.
• Learn about your health insurance and health care finances.
• Take on responsibilities. Ask questions. Take your health care into your own hands!

Who can help me plan my transition?

• Your metabolic doctor or nurse practitioner
• Your metabolic social worker or clinic nurse
• The medical staff of the Medical Home
• Your family, spouse, partner
• A friend who has been though the same process

Things to remember:

• Transition is a process. It occurs gradually and needs lots of planning.
• Transition is part of growing up. It can be challenging, but it can also be fun, exciting and rewarding!
• You are not alone. Your family and medical staff are here to help you when things seem confusing.

Click here to download a helpful Transitions Brochure!

Adapted from materials developed by Children's Hospital Boston as part of the Massachusetts Initiative for Youth with Disabilities, a Healthy and Ready to Work project of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.